Capitol Riot Fugitive Arrested

WASHINGTON — Incoming Vice President J.D. Vance stated unequivocally that individuals responsible for the January 6th Capitol riot violence should not receive pardons, contrasting President-elect Trump’s intention to pardon many involved in the attempt to overturn the 2020 election results.

In a “Fox News Sunday” interview, Vance deemed the pardon issue straightforward: peaceful protestors deserve pardons, while those who engaged in violence clearly should not. He acknowledged a potential “gray area” in certain situations.

Trump declared his intent to issue pardons to rioters on his first day in office, January 20th, commenting on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that he would likely act swiftly, citing the rioters’ prolonged suffering. He suggested possible exceptions for those deemed “radical” or “crazy.”

Over 1,500 individuals face federal charges related to the Capitol siege, which resulted in over 100 police injuries and forced lawmakers into hiding during the certification of Joe Biden’s electoral victory.

Hundreds not involved in destruction or violence were charged with misdemeanors for unlawful Capitol entry. Others faced felonies, including assault charges for attacking police. Leaders of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys were convicted of seditious conspiracy for allegedly plotting to use violence to prevent the peaceful transfer of power.

Responding to criticism on X from supporters of the rioters, Vance clarified that his stance wasn’t a softening of his position, emphasizing his long-standing defense of those involved. He maintained that reviewing each case individually, as he and the president proposed, wasn’t a retreat; they remain concerned about those unjustly imprisoned, including individuals who may have been provoked or received unfair trials.