Former President Donald Trump has reiterated his support for individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, stating that if he were elected to a second term, one of his first acts would be to “free” those he claims are “wrongfully imprisoned.”
Trump made this statement on his social media platform, hinting at using the presidential pardon power to pardon individuals convicted for their roles in the Capitol riot. He has previously expressed his inclination to pardon many of them, though he acknowledged that some may have gone “out of control.”
Donald Trump (Credits: CNBC)
The Department of Justice has reported that nearly 1,400 people have been arrested and charged in connection with the January 6 attack, with almost 800 of them pleading guilty. Among those charged, 127 individuals are accused of using a deadly or dangerous weapon or causing serious bodily injury to an officer.
Donald Trump (Credits: WHYY)
Despite the severity of the charges, Trump has consistently defended the rioters, referring to them as “J6 hostages” and calling for their release.
At recent events, music by the “J6 Prison Choir” has been played before Trump takes the stage, with the choir singing the “Star-Spangled Banner” as Trump recites the Pledge of Allegiance.
While most defendants sentenced to prison terms will likely be released by January 2025, when Trump could potentially return to the White House if reelected, his continued support for individuals involved in the Capitol riot has sparked controversy and raised questions about his commitment to upholding the rule of law.
