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Trump Pardons 1,500 Capitol Rioters, Sparks Outrage

WASHINGTON: In a highly controversial move, former U.S. President Donald Trump issued pardons to more than 1,500 individuals connected to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. The mass pardon was signed on his first day back in office, fulfilling a campaign promise to absolve those he previously described as “patriots” and “political prisoners.”

Among those granted clemency were Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the Proud Boys, and Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers. Tarrio had been serving a 22-year prison sentence, while Rhodes was convicted of seditious conspiracy and sentenced to 18 years. Both men had their sentences reduced to time served.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Trump described the rioters as victims of political persecution. “These were hostages of a corrupt system. Today, justice has been served,” he declared, calling the events of January 6 a misunderstood act of patriotism.

The pardons have sparked widespread condemnation. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi slammed the decision, calling it “a betrayal of our justice system and an insult to the brave officers who defended democracy that day.” She added, “It sends a dangerous message that violent attempts to subvert elections come without consequence.”

President Biden, in one of his final acts before leaving office, preemptively pardoned several former advisers, including Dr. Anthony Fauci and General Mark Milley, citing fears of politically motivated reprisals from the Trump administration. He also extended pardons to family members, including his brother James and sister Valerie, to shield them from potential investigations.

The Capitol riot, which left more than 140 officers injured and disrupted the certification of Biden’s 2020 victory, remains a defining moment of Trump’s presidency. Critics argue that his actions on January 6 incited the violence, while supporters claim his speech and the events were within the bounds of free expression.

Legal experts have described the pardons as unprecedented. “This undermines the very foundation of accountability in our democracy,” said one prominent legal scholar. “It sets a precedent that could embolden future attempts to interfere with the peaceful transfer of power.”

Observers now question how this action will affect Trump’s presidency moving forward, as critics gear up to challenge the legality and implications of his sweeping use of executive clemency.

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