On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. This move fulfills his campaign promise to release supporters involved in the incident.
Among those pardoned were leaders of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys, who had been convicted of seditious conspiracy for their roles in the events of January 6. The Justice Department had previously charged over 1,500 individuals linked to the riot, with some receiving lengthy sentences for assault and other crimes.
President Trump’s decision to grant clemency aligns with his longstanding view that many participants were treated unfairly. He has consistently referred to non-violent offenders as “patriots” and “hostages,” emphasizing their perceived unjust treatment by the Justice Department.
The pardons were among several executive actions taken by President Trump on his first day back in office. Other actions included declaring a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations, and rescinding policies from the previous administration related to Title IX and COVID-19.
Conservatives have welcomed the pardons and described them as a step toward justice for those who were wrongfully prosecuted.
President Trump has promised that many more executive orders will be signed over the coming days.