President-elect Trump intends to pardon individuals convicted of January 6th Capitol riot crimes, including those who assaulted police officers, upon assuming office. This includes those who pleaded guilty to assaulting police and even leaders charged with sedition. This decision stands in stark contrast to the initial bipartisan condemnation of the violence, with numerous Republican senators denouncing the actions at the time. The scale of potential pardons—potentially encompassing hundreds or even thousands—is unprecedented and raises serious concerns.
Read More
In a recent interview, Donald Trump emphasized a message of “unity” for his upcoming inauguration speech, contrasting with his past rhetoric. While he stated he wouldn’t personally pursue investigations into political rivals like Joe Biden, he suggested his attorney general and FBI director should “look at” such matters. He also indicated potential pardons for January 6th rioters and consideration of citizenship for long-term child migrants, while maintaining a conditional commitment to NATO membership dependent on member contributions. Furthermore, Trump defended his controversial defense secretary nominee despite a rape allegation.
Read More
In response to Trump’s threats, Liz Cheney condemned his attempt to overturn the 2020 election and incite the January 6th Capitol riot, characterizing it as an assault on the rule of law. Adam Kinzinger similarly rebuked Trump, defiantly welcoming any legal action. Trump further demonstrated his disregard for the ongoing January 6th investigation by expressing his intention to influence the investigation through his attorney general nominee. These responses highlight the deep divisions within the Republican party regarding Trump’s actions and legacy.
Read More
In a recent interview, Donald Trump called for the imprisonment of all January 6th committee members, though he denied intending to use the Justice Department for this purpose. He plans to pardon some January 6th rioters upon taking office, citing their lengthy incarceration in poor conditions. Trump’s nominee for FBI Director, Kash Patel, advocates for targeting journalists and dismantling the FBI. These actions, along with a preemptive pardon for his son Hunter Biden, highlight a pattern of using the justice system for political retribution.
Read More
Judge Royce Lamberth sentenced Philip Grillo, a former congressional candidate, to 12 months imprisonment for his participation in the January 6th Capitol attack. Despite Grillo’s claims of a potential presidential pardon and attempts to delay sentencing, Lamberth emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and accountability for those who broke the law that day. The judge refuted misinformation surrounding the Jan. 6th prosecutions, stating that no one was prosecuted for protected speech, only for illegal actions. Lamberth’s sentencing underscored the judiciary’s commitment to justice, independent of political influence.
Read More
President-elect Trump intends to swiftly pardon his supporters involved in the January 6th Capitol attack upon assuming office, citing their harsh treatment within the justice system. He will not, however, direct his Attorney General nominee to investigate his political opponents, despite his grievances with the Justice Department and FBI. Trump believes some members of the House January 6th Committee should face jail time for their actions, while asserting that many January 6th defendants were unfairly pressured into guilty pleas. He plans to leave decisions regarding investigations of political adversaries to his appointees, prioritizing the country’s success over retribution.
Read More
Following South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law, the opposition Democratic Party swiftly overturned his decree within six hours, highlighting the fragility of democracy. This rapid response contrasts sharply with the delayed reaction to the January 6th Capitol attack in the United States. The South Korean example underscores the need for immediate and decisive action to counter authoritarian threats, demonstrating that a united and swift opposition is far more effective than a delayed response. This urgency is crucial given the ongoing threat posed by individuals like Donald Trump who repeatedly challenge democratic norms.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker