President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to pardon “most” individuals accused or convicted in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, stating the action would begin immediately upon taking office. In an interview with Time Magazine, he emphasized the urgency of these pardons, referring to the rioters as “political prisoners.”
Over 1,500 individuals have faced charges for their roles in the Capitol breach, with offenses ranging from trespassing to seditious conspiracy. Leaders of extremist groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, including Enrique Tarrio and Stewart Rhodes, have been convicted and sentenced to lengthy prison terms. Their lawyers have signaled plans to seek clemency for their clients.
Trump has not clarified the full extent of his planned pardons, leaving open questions about whether those convicted of serious offenses will be included. While some defendants have requested delays in legal proceedings in anticipation of pardons, judges have largely rejected these motions.
The Biden administration has called the Capitol attack an assault on democracy, with the Justice Department conducting one of its most extensive investigations and prosecutions. Federal prosecutors noted that pardons would not erase convictions, as acceptance of a pardon requires an admission of guilt.
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