56 sources·Politics

Trump Defends Pardons for January 6 Rioters, Critiques Biden's Pardon Power

In his first interview of the term, Trump defends pardons for January 6 rioters while suggesting Biden should have pardoned himself.

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  1. Trump defends January 6 pardons in his first Oval Office interview of second term

    Trump's decision to issue pardons for those involved in the January 6 Capitol riots underscores his belief that these individuals were unjustly penalized for expressing their dissent against what he claims was a rigged election.

    Trump defends January 6 pardons in his first Oval Office interview of second term

    Business InsiderBusiness Insider·3M
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  2. ‘Very minor incidents’: Trump defends January 6 pardons in first interview since inauguration

    Trump's disregard for the severity of the January 6 riots, downplaying the violence against police officers as mere 'minor incidents,' underscores not only his continued denial of the events but also raises troubling questions about his commitment to justice and accountability.

    ‘Very minor incidents’: Trump defends January 6 pardons in first interview since inauguration

    The GuardianThe Guardian·3M
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  3. Editorial: Trump & Biden give presidential pardons a black eye

    The recent actions of both Trump and Biden in granting pardons highlight a troubling disregard for the principles of justice and accountability, demonstrating the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the pardon system.

    Editorial: Trump & Biden give presidential pardons a black eye

    Boston HeraldBoston Herald·3M
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  4. Trump Brushes Off Jan. 6 Rioters Beating Cops: 'Minor Incidents'

    Trump's characterization of the Capitol riots as 'minor incidents' severely downplays the severity of the violence faced by law enforcement and undermines the gravity of the events that transpired on January 6.

    Trump Brushes Off Jan. 6 Rioters Beating Cops: 'Minor Incidents'

    Rolling StoneRolling Stone·3M
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  5. Trump suggests it was a mistake Biden didn’t pardon himself

    The author implies that Biden's failure to pardon himself reflects poor decision-making and questionable advice from his advisers, setting him up for potential legal troubles.

    Trump suggests it was a mistake Biden didn’t pardon himself

    The HillThe Hill·3M
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  6. Trump Pardons DC Officers Sentenced in Connection to Car Chase Death

    In a controversial move, President Trump has chosen to pardon two former police officers whose actions during a pursuit led to the death of a young man, raising significant questions about accountability in law enforcement.

    Trump Pardons DC Officers Sentenced in Connection to Car Chase Death

    Breitbart NewsBreitbart News·3M
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  7. Adam Kinzinger Rips Speaker Johnson for Defending Pardons

    Kinzinger's outrage highlights the hypocrisy of Speaker Johnson's use of the concept of redemption, emphasizing that true repentance is lacking among those pardoned by Trump.

    Adam Kinzinger Rips Speaker Johnson for Defending Pardons

    MEDIAiteMEDIAite·3M
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  8. Are D.C. prisons ignoring Trump’s January 6 pardons? Senator says ‘yes’

    The refusal of D.C. jail officials to release January 6 prisoners, despite President Trump's pardons, reflects a troubling trend in government overreach and disregard for due process, raising alarms among residents who are becoming increasingly aware of the situation's unfairness.

    Are D.C. prisons ignoring Trump’s January 6 pardons? Senator says ‘yes’

    The BlazeThe Blaze·3M
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  9. Trump pardons police officers convicted of murder, obstruction in man's death

    The decision to grant pardons to the officers involved in such a controversial case raises serious questions about accountability and justice within the police force.

    Trump pardons police officers convicted of murder, obstruction in man's death

    USA TODAYUSA TODAY·3M
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  10. A "revisionist myth": Judges lambast Trump's pardons and dismissal of cases against Jan. 6 defendants

    The dismissals of charges and the sweeping pardons issued by President Trump not only undermine the judicial process but also risk glorifying the insurrectionists, setting a troubling precedent for future electoral disputes.

    A "revisionist myth": Judges lambast Trump's pardons and dismissal of cases against Jan. 6 defendants

    CBS NewsCBS News·3M
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  11. Trump pardons former DC police officers convicted in death of man during deadly pursuit

    The decision to grant pardons to the convicted officers not only raises serious questions about accountability within law enforcement but also suggests a troubling precedent where justice appears to be swayed by political affiliations.

    Trump pardons former DC police officers convicted in death of man during deadly pursuit

    FOX NewsFOX News·3M
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  12. Jan. 6 Defendant Who Received Clemency From Trump Arrested On Gun Charge From 2023

    The uncomfortable truth is that clemency for those involved in the January 6 insurrection, particularly violent offenders like Daniel Ball, raises serious questions about accountability and the rule of law in America.

    Jan. 6 Defendant Who Received Clemency From Trump Arrested On Gun Charge From 2023

    HuffPostHuffPost·3M
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  13. Trump Targets His Own Government

    This order confirms that, now that he is back in office, Trump will have no qualms toggling the levers of executive power to follow through on his promises of revenge.

    Trump Targets His Own Government

    The AtlanticThe Atlantic·3M
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  14. Dem unleashes on Speaker for bowing to Trump pardons: 'I don’t ever want to hear about law and order'

    The pardons granted by Trump are not only sickening but reflect a deeply troubling set of priorities within the Republican Party, as they allow violent offenders back on the streets while undermining the very notion of law and order.

    Dem unleashes on Speaker for bowing to Trump pardons: 'I don’t ever want to hear about law and order'

    AlterNetAlterNet·3M
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  15. Notorious Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes spotted near Capitol after being freed by Trump

    The return of Stewart Rhodes to Capitol Hill, alongside the mass clemency granted by Trump to the Jan. 6 rioters, underscores a troubling moment in American history where the consequences of insurrection seem to be brushed aside in favor of political redemption.

    Notorious Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes spotted near Capitol after being freed by Trump

    New York PostNew York Post·3M
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  16. Some Republicans express opposition to Trump's Jan. 6 pardons

    The sharp division among Republicans highlights the contentious nature of President Trump’s pardons, with some vehemently opposing the clemency for violent offenders while others staunchly defend it as a matter of principle.

    Some Republicans express opposition to Trump's Jan. 6 pardons

    Straight Arrow NewsStraight Arrow News·3M
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  17. The J6 Pardons — the Long View

    The author expresses a complex stance on President Trump's blanket pardons for January 6 rioters, highlighting concerns about due process and the politicization of justice, while also drawing historical parallels to past acts of clemency for violent insurrections.

    The J6 Pardons — the Long View

    New York SunNew York Sun·3M
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  18. The Country's Largest Police Union, Which Repeatedly Endorsed Trump, Is Dismayed by His Capitol Riot Pardons

    The FOP's criticism of Trump's pardons reveals a troubling disconnect between his support for law enforcement and his willingness to overlook the consequences of violence against police officers by his supporters.

    The Country's Largest Police Union, Which Repeatedly Endorsed Trump, Is Dismayed by His Capitol Riot Pardons

    ReasonReason·3M
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  19. Trump’s January 6 pardons were democratically legitimate — and dangerous

    Trump’s decision to let those who rioted in his name out of prison reflects what the electorate voted for and represents the final rewriting of the history of January 6, which the country is, at least for now, willing to forget.

    Trump’s January 6 pardons were democratically legitimate — and dangerous

    VoxVox·3M
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  20. Trump's Jan. 6 pardons won't change the 'truth', judge says

    Despite President Trump's attempt to rewrite history through mass pardons, the fundamental truth of the January 6 Capitol riot remains unchanged and is preserved in the objective records of the events.

    Trump's Jan. 6 pardons won't change the 'truth', judge says

    ABC NewsABC News·3M
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  21. Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes visits Capitol Hill after Trump clemency

    The legal system's unyielding counsel against the mass pardons is a reminder that the violent events of January 6th, which shook the foundations of American democracy, cannot simply be brushed aside by political maneuvers.

    Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes visits Capitol Hill after Trump clemency

    Associated PressAssociated Press·3M
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  22. ‘You Just Can’t Stand The Fact That He Won’: GOP Rep Fires Back At Jim Acosta After Endless Trump J6 Pardon Questions

    The heated exchange between Rep. Burchett and Jim Acosta underscores the deep divisions in American political discourse, highlighting Burchett's contention that mainstream media like CNN are more focused on attacking Trump than addressing broader issues in society.

    ‘You Just Can’t Stand The Fact That He Won’: GOP Rep Fires Back At Jim Acosta After Endless Trump J6 Pardon Questions

    Daily CallerDaily Caller·3M
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  23. Trump's "f***ing brutal" Jan. 6 pardons have House Democrats apoplectic

    Trump's sweeping pardons for January 6 defendants, particularly those who assaulted police officers, have left Democrats not only horrified but also convinced that collaboration with the self-styled dealmaker will be an uphill battle.

    Trump's "f***ing brutal" Jan. 6 pardons have House Democrats apoplectic

    AxiosAxios·3M
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  24. Bernie Sanders says Biden's pardons can't 'equate' to Trump's

    The contrasting approaches to pardons by Biden and Trump highlight the troubling implications of Trump's rhetoric, which seems to endorse violence against law enforcement and sends a deeply concerning message to the public.

    Bernie Sanders says Biden's pardons can't 'equate' to Trump's

    Washington ExaminerWashington Examiner·3M
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  25. Trump's last-minute decision to go big on Jan. 6 pardons took many allies by surprise

    Trump's sweeping pardon of nearly all individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack reflects a controversial commitment to his base, but raises significant concerns about accountability and the implications for justice moving forward.

    Trump's last-minute decision to go big on Jan. 6 pardons took many allies by surprise

    NBC NewsNBC News·3M
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  26. Trump defends pardons for rioters and suggests Proud Boys could have place in politics

    Trump's aggressive approach to granting clemency to those involved in the Capitol attack reflects his ongoing commitment to reshaping political norms and fostering a more inclusive space for extremist groups within American politics.

    Trump defends pardons for rioters and suggests Proud Boys could have place in politics

    Boston GlobeBoston Globe·3M
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  27. Some Trump voters express reservations with his sweeping Jan. 6 pardons

    The pardons issued by Trump represent a troubling disregard for justice and a betrayal of the rule of law, as evidenced by the violence against police during the January 6 insurrection and the widespread disapproval among the public.

    Some Trump voters express reservations with his sweeping Jan. 6 pardons

    NPRNPR·3M
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  1. Business Insider
  2. The Guardian
  3. Boston Herald
  4. Rolling Stone
  5. The Hill
  6. Breitbart News
  7. MEDIAite
  8. The Blaze
  9. USA TODAY
  10. CBS News
  11. FOX News
  12. HuffPost
  13. The Atlantic
  14. AlterNet
  15. New York Post
  16. PBS NewsHour
  17. Straight Arrow News
  18. New York Sun
  19. Reason
  20. Vox
  21. ABC News
  22. Associated Press
  23. Daily Caller
  24. Axios
  25. Washington Examiner
  26. NBC News
  27. Boston Globe
  28. NPR

Updated: Jan 23rd, 2025, 2:32 AM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

In a recent Fox News interview, President Trump defended his pardons for over 1,500 January 6 rioters, dismissing the incidents as minor. He criticized former President Biden for not using his pardon power for himself and implied that Biden's advisers misled him. Trump's comments have sparked further bipartisan backlash, with lawmakers and judges asserting these pardons do not change the realities of the Capitol riot. Trump suggested that investigations into Biden's decisions may be warranted, escalating tensions surrounding accountability and justice related to both the January 6 event and political pardons.


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Trump Defends Pardons for January 6 Rioters, Critiques Biden's Pardon Power - Pano News