Donald Trump Promises to Pardon January 6 Capitol Rioters: The Full Story Behind the Attack

Speaking to TIME magazine, Donald Trump declared that when re-elected, he would pardon those convicted in connection with the 6 January insurrection within the first hour of his presidency.

The former president's comments have reignited controversy over one of the darkest chapters in modern American history. As the nation braces for potential ramifications, here's a detailed account of the Capitol riots and their aftermath.

The Insurrection: A Violent Assault on Democracy

On 6 January 2021, a mob of pro-Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol in an unprecedented act of domestic unrest. The rioters aimed to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden's victory in the 2020 presidential election, following months of Trump's baseless claims that the election had been 'stolen'.

According to the FBI, approximately 2,500 people breached the Capitol Building, waving US and Confederate flags while carrying weapons and erecting makeshift gallows. Law enforcement was overwhelmed as rioters pushed through barricades, climbed walls, and vandalised offices.

Members of Congress and staff, including then-Vice President Mike Pence, were forced to barricade themselves or evacuate to secure locations. Pence became a particular target, with chants of 'Hang Mike Pence' echoing through the halls.

The chaos lasted for hours before the Capitol was secured by 6 pm, allowing Congress to resume its certification of Biden's victory.

Trump's Role in Inciting the Mob

The insurrection followed months of Trump's repeated claims of voter fraud. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Trump urged supporters to gather in Washington, DC, and declared the election results fraudulent.

During a rally on 6 January, Trump addressed a crowd near the White House, stating, 'We will never concede. You don't concede when there's theft involved.' He encouraged the crowd to march to the Capitol and 'peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard'.

Critics argue that Trump's rhetoric and timing were designed to inflame tensions, setting the stage for the violence that unfolded.

The mob included members of organised far-right groups such as the Proud Boys, Oath Keepers, and Three Percenters. The Proud Boys, a neofascist organisation classified as a terrorist group in Canada and New Zealand, were among the first to breach the Capitol.

Known for promoting misogyny, anti-Semitism, and street violence, their presence highlighted the extremist underpinnings of the attack.

Lives Lost During the Riots

Four individuals died during the events of 6 January. Ashli Babbitt, 35, was shot by Capitol Police as she attempted to breach a barricaded area. Benjamin Phillips, 50, and Kevin Greeson, 55, suffered fatal heart attacks, while Rosanne Boyland, 34, died from a drug overdose.

The toll on law enforcement was equally severe. Around 140 officers were injured, including 80 from the Capitol Police. Officer Brian Sicknick, who was assaulted with pepper spray during the riots, died the following day after suffering strokes.

While his death was ruled as natural causes, the medical examiner acknowledged the role of the attack in his condition.

In the months following the riot, four responding officers died by suicide. Officers Jeffrey Smith and Howard Liebengood's deaths were ruled as line-of-duty fatalities, directly linked to the psychological trauma they endured on 6 January.

Arrests and Prosecutions

The Justice Department has charged more than 1,186 individuals in connection with the Capitol riot. The charges include:

• 116 for using dangerous weapons.
• 71 for destroying government property.
• 332 for obstructing official proceedings.
• 57 for conspiracy to harm officers or disrupt Congress.

High-profile convictions include Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the Proud Boys, who was sentenced to 22 years for his role in the attack.

Trump's Response and Promises of Pardons

Following the violence, Trump released a video urging his supporters to 'go home with love and in peace' while reiterating his claims of a 'stolen election'. He has since described 6 January as a 'beautiful day' and referred to the rioters as 'patriots'.

These remarks led to Trump's second impeachment, though he was ultimately acquitted by the Senate. His recent pledge to pardon those convicted of riot-related offences has drawn sharp criticism, with opponents warning it could embolden future acts of political violence.

The events of 6 January serve as a stark reminder of how quickly democratic norms can be undermined. The storming of the Capitol was unprecedented, marking the first such breach since 1814.

As Trump's promise of clemency looms, the long-term implications for accountability and extremism remain uncertain. However, the insurrection stands as a chilling example of the dangers posed by political divisiveness and incendiary rhetoric.