Official Senate records and press releases

Senate Democrats Condemn Trump's Pardons of 1,500 Jan. 6 Rioters for Assault on Capitol Police

Jan 27, 2025, 02:22 PM

Senate Democrats have introduced a resolution to condemn President Donald Trump's pardons of individuals convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The resolution, led by Sen. Patty Murray, specifically disapproves of pardons for those found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police officers. Initially, 46 Democratic Senators co-sponsored the resolution, with Sen. John Fetterman initially abstaining but later joining as a co-sponsor. The resolution aims to be passed by unanimous consent, though it is expected that a Republican objection could block its passage. Trump's action pardoned nearly 1,500 people charged in the attack, excluding only 14 members of militant groups whose sentences were commuted. Democrats argue that these pardons undermine the rule of law and could encourage future political violence. Sen. Andy Kim expressed concern that the blanket pardons might incentivize future political attacks.