Schumer blasts Trump’s J6 pardons as ‘un-American’

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., strongly criticized President Donald Trump’s decision to pardon over 1,000 individuals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021 riots, calling it “un-American.” Schumer expressed his dismay during a press conference on Tuesday, denouncing the pardons as “deeply un-American,” especially since some of those pardoned were convicted of serious offenses like seditious conspiracy.

Schumer emphasized the gravity of Trump’s actions, stating, “There is no other way to describe President Trump’s pardon of Jan. 6th defenders than un-American. It is so deeply un-American to do that, to pardon. And let’s be clear, President Trump didn’t just pardon protesters. He pardoned individuals convicted of assaulting police officers. He pardoned individuals convicted of seditious conspiracy. And he pardoned those who attempted to undermine our democracy.”

President Trump signed the controversial pardons on Monday evening for approximately 1,500 defendants charged with crimes related to the riot at the U.S. Capitol, fulfilling a promise he made in December to swiftly pardon them. In addition to the pardons, Trump also commuted the sentences of six individuals, including the leaders of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys extremist groups.

Schumer’s sentiments echoed those of former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., who described the pardons as “shameful.” Pelosi highlighted the bravery of law enforcement officers who risked their lives to safeguard democracy during the Capitol riot, condemning Trump’s actions as an “outrageous insult to our justice system and the heroes who suffered physical scars and emotional trauma.”

Rioters reportedly attacked around 140 police officers from both the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department during the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection, according to the Justice Department. Pelosi emphasized the significance of honoring these officers and ensuring justice for their sacrifices.

President Trump’s decision to pardon the Jan. 6 defendants drew widespread criticism and sparked outrage among lawmakers and law enforcement officials. Pelosi condemned Trump’s prioritization of pardoning individuals who posed a threat to democracy, emphasizing the need to uphold the rule of law and protect those who defend it.

In a defiant move, Trump announced his plans to issue the pardons during an inaugural parade, referring to the charged individuals as “hostages.” Despite the backlash, Trump remained resolute in his decision to grant pardons to those involved in the Capitol riot, further deepening the divide among political leaders and the public.

As the controversy surrounding Trump’s pardons continues to unfold, it underscores the challenges of upholding justice and accountability in the face of political turmoil. The implications of these pardons raise concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the need to uphold the integrity of the justice system.

The events surrounding the Jan. 6 riots and Trump’s subsequent pardons serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy and the importance of safeguarding the rule of law. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the Capitol insurrection, it is crucial to reflect on the values that underpin our democracy and strive to uphold them in the face of adversity.