In a recent chat with Fox News host Sean Hannity, former President Donald Trump referred to the violent actions of Capitol rioters towards police as “minor incidents. ” This interview, happening after his swearing-in ceremony, saw Trump defending his decision to pardon 1, 500 people involved in the January 6, 2021, insurrection.

Trump mentioned that these individuals had spent an extended period in solitary confinement and were treated harshly. He justified their actions by pointing out they were protesting what they believed was a rigged election. “They were standing against the vote, ” Trump said, implying that this was a justifiable reason for their actions.

Hannity stepped in, suggesting that breaking into the Capitol is not acceptable. Trump argued that most of the rioters were innocent, highlighting the number of people involved. “We're talking about 1, 500 people here, ” he said, adding that pardoning them was cumbersome but necessary.

Among the pardoned were individuals who had committed severe acts of violence. For instance, David Dempsey was sentenced to 20 years for viciously attacking police officers with various weapons. Daniel Joseph “DJ” Rodriguez tasered Officer Michael Fanone, causing him to suffer a heart attack, concussion, and PTSD. Despite these grave incidents, Trump maintained that they were “minor” and elevated by media outlets like CNN.

The Capitol riot saw 140 police officers assaulted. Trump's pardon of these individuals sparked controversy. Some believe it sends a wrong message about the seriousness of assaulting law enforcement officers.

Trump Downplays Violence from Capitol Rioters: Just Minor Issues

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