Vice President-elect JD Vance has made a clear statement regarding the use of clemency for individuals involved in the violent events of the January 6 Capitol riot, stressing that those responsible for violence “obviously” should not be pardoned. This stance comes as President-elect Donald Trump has signaled his intent to grant pardons to many of those who attempted to disrupt the certification of the 2020 election results.
In an interview on “Fox News Sunday,” Vance addressed the pardon issue, calling it “very simple.” He explained, “Those who protested peacefully should be pardoned, but if you committed violence that day, obviously you shouldn’t be pardoned.” Vance did acknowledge, however, that certain cases may involve more complexity. “There’s a bit of a gray area in some cases,” he added.
The Capitol riot, which occurred on January 6, 2021, saw over 1,500 individuals charged with federal crimes. The violence resulted in more than 100 police officers being injured, and lawmakers were forced to evacuate as they gathered to certify Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election. While many of those involved in the riot face charges related to illegal entry or property destruction, others are facing more serious felony charges, including assaulting police officers.
Prominent leaders of extremist groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys have been convicted of seditious conspiracy, with prosecutors describing their actions as part of a coordinated effort to prevent the peaceful transfer of power from President Trump to President Biden.
In response to criticism from some Capitol rioter supporters, who claimed his stance was too lenient, Vance clarified his position on social media. “I’ve been defending these guys for years,” he said, emphasizing that his comments were not a shift in his views. “The president saying he’ll review each case (and me saying the same) is not some walkback. I assure you, we care about people unjustly locked up. Yes, that includes people who were provoked and those who did not receive a fair trial.”
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