On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump surprised everyone by pardoning over 1, 500 people charged in the January 6, 2021, U. S. Capitol attack. This includes those convicted of serious crimes like seditious conspiracy and assaulting police officers. Even leaders of extremist groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys are getting a break. Trump is also asking the attorney general to drop about 450 cases that are still pending.

This move comes after years of Trump trying to rewrite the history of the attack. He now claims that the participants were treated unfairly and that the pardons will start a process of national reconciliation. People like Enrique Tarrio, the former Proud Boys leader, are expected to be released from prison.

The pardons come just weeks after Trump's own case related to the January 6 events was dismissed. This was due to a Justice Department policy that prevents prosecuting sitting presidents. Trump had previously suggested that he would look at each case individually, but this blanket pardon is a big change.

The January 6 attacks were violent, with over 100 police officers injured. Rioters stormed the Capitol, overwhelming police and causing lawmakers to flee. Some officers were beaten and even crushed in doorframes. The extent of the violence has been well-documented.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized the pardons, saying they insult the justice system and the officers who were hurt. Over 1, 200 people have been convicted in the riot, and more than 1, 000 have already been sentenced.

Trump's Mass Pardon: A Shocking Twist in the Jan. 6 Saga

Actions