The recent GOP pardons related to the January 6th Capitol riot have sparked outrage, particularly from Democratic leadership. The sheer number of individuals pardoned, many of whom were involved in violent acts against law enforcement and the Capitol building itself, is deeply concerning. This action sends a dangerous message, minimizing the severity of the insurrection and potentially encouraging further acts of political violence.
This wave of pardons directly contradicts previous rhetoric from the GOP about upholding the rule of law and condemning political violence. The hypocrisy is glaring, a stark contrast between their public statements and their actions. It’s a blatant disregard for the seriousness of the events of that day, the damage inflicted, and the trauma experienced by those who were directly affected, including law enforcement personnel.… Continue reading
Pamela Hemphill, a participant in the January 6th Capitol riot, publicly rejected a potential pardon from Donald Trump. Despite pleading guilty to charges stemming from her actions and serving time, Hemphill denounced Trump’s movement, citing his narcissistic behavior and manipulation. She has since become a vocal critic of Trump, actively campaigning against him and revealing that she was manipulated into participation in the riot. Her outspoken opposition to Trump follows a family intervention that helped her recognize the cult-like nature of his following.
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A video surfaced showing a Trump supporter live-streaming his drive on the anniversary of the January 6th Capitol riot, during which he boasted of his actions and played altered versions of “YMCA.” While claiming God had cleared a path, he crashed his car into a median. The incident drew comparisons to a similar crash involving pro-Trump merchandise sellers and sparked mixed reactions online, with some seeing it as karmic justice and others expressing relief at the occupants’ safety. The driver’s actions and statements were particularly noteworthy given the context of the January 6th anniversary.
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Pam Hemphill, a 69-year-old Idaho woman convicted for her role in the January 6th Capitol riot, publicly rejected a potential pardon from Donald Trump. Following media appearances where she condemned the attack and Trump’s role, she reported being harassed by MAGA supporters, including alleged attempts to interfere with her probation. Despite this, Hemphill stated her intention to continue speaking out, citing increased resolve. Her conviction included two months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and restitution for damages to the Capitol building.
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Justin LaGesse, a 37-year-old Illinois resident, received an 11-month prison sentence and was ordered to pay $43,315 in restitution for his role in the January 6th Capitol riot. He pleaded guilty to felony destruction of government property after using a flagpole to break a Capitol window and verbally assaulting police officers. LaGesse’s actions, which included shouting insults at law enforcement, were captured on surveillance footage. The sentencing follows over 1,500 other charges related to the Capitol breach.
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In stark contrast to the January 6th, 2021 insurrection, this year’s joint session to certify the presidential election proceeded with minimal disruption. A single lone protestor stood outside the heavily secured Capitol building, a far cry from the violent mob that stormed the building four years prior. Inside, the certification of Donald Trump’s electoral victory unfolded with a noticeable lack of dissent, despite the gravity of the event and the implications for American democracy. The quiet acquiescence of the Democratic party and the celebratory response of Republicans highlighted a deep partisan divide and raised questions about the country’s ability to withstand future challenges to the democratic process.
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Protests in Washington D.C. are urging Congress to prevent President-elect Trump’s inauguration, citing the 14th Amendment’s disqualification clause for those who engaged in insurrection. While some legal experts argue this action is constitutionally permissible, based on Trump’s actions surrounding the January 6th Capitol riot, the movement, “14th Now,” is unlikely to sway Congress, which intends to certify the election results. Despite legal challenges in state courts, the Supreme Court prevented states from barring presidential candidates, leaving the question of Trump’s eligibility unresolved. Trump’s transition team maintains he will serve all Americans.
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Thousands are protesting in Washington D.C. this weekend to prevent Donald Trump’s inauguration, arguing that the 14th Amendment bars him from office due to his involvement in the January 6th Capitol riot. Led by Trump’s former staffer Jessica Denson and supported by legal experts, the “#14thNow” movement aims to pressure lawmakers to reject Trump’s electoral votes. Success would result in Vice President Kamala Harris becoming president. Legal scholars contend that sufficient congressional objection to Trump’s electoral votes, based on the 14th Amendment and the findings of the January 6th Committee, could disqualify him.
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Representative Annie Kuster, citing the January 6th Capitol riot and its impact on her ability to work effectively in an increasingly polarized Congress, announced her retirement. Kuster, who narrowly escaped the rioters, stated that the events of that day, and the subsequent actions of individuals like Elon Musk, influenced her decision. She also expressed concerns about President Biden’s ability to win re-election against Donald Trump. Ultimately, her retirement reflects a desire for a less combative political environment.
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Retired Metropolitan Police Department Lt. Shane Lamond was found guilty on all four counts—obstruction of justice and three counts of making false statements—for leaking confidential information to Enrique Tarrio, the former chairman of the Proud Boys. The evidence presented showed Lamond tipped off Tarrio about an impending arrest warrant and exchanged messages with him regarding the January 6th Capitol riot. Lamond’s defense, that he did not provide Tarrio with sensitive information, was rejected by Judge Amy Berman Jackson. Lamond’s sentencing is scheduled for April 3rd.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker