In a controversial move, former President Donald Trump has pardoned key figures involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, including Enrique Tarrio, leader of the Proud Boys, and Stewart Rhodes, leader of the Oath Keepers. Both leaders had been sentenced for their roles in planning the insurrection, with Tarrio facing 22 years and Rhodes 18 years in prison. This decision has sparked outrage among many, especially among law enforcement officers who were at the Capitol during the attack. Meanwhile, a new select subcommittee is set to investigate the events leading up to and following January 6, aiming to reveal the complete truth to the American public.
On January 6, 2021, members of both the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers infiltrated the U.S. Capitol. Some members engaged in violence, disrupting the certification of the presidential election results. Despite their incarceration, both Tarrio and Rhodes have now been released following presidential pardons. This has led to significant backlash from those affected by the events of that day. Michael Fanone, a retired officer who suffered injuries during the riot, expressed his anger towards Rhodes in a candid interview.
“This is what I say to Stewart Rhodes – go fuck yourself.” – Michael Fanone
Federal prosecutors have highlighted the pivotal role played by these groups in the riot. According to them, no organization had a more significant presence at the Capitol than the Proud Boys.
“No organization put more boots on the ground at the Capitol on January 6, 2021 than the Proud Boys, and they were at the forefront of every major breach of the Capitol’s defenses, leading the on-the-ground efforts to storm the seat of government.” – Federal prosecutors
During court proceedings, it was revealed that the Oath Keepers had plotted for months to violently disrupt the peaceful transfer of power. The group's intentions were made clear by Stewart Rhodes's own words at the time.
“We were there to protect Trump supporters from Antifa,” – Stewart Rhodes
A judge in Rhodes' case emphasized his potential threat due to his influential nature.
“You are smart, you are charismatic and compelling and frankly that’s what makes you dangerous. The moment you are released, whenever that may be, you will be ready to take up arms against your government.” – Judge
Enrique Tarrio also commented on his portrayal in the media and emphasized his continued commitment to his beliefs.
“The people who did this, they need to feel the heat, they need to be put behind bars, and they need to be prosecuted,” – Enrique Tarrio
“We’ve made the decision four years ago not to tell the media what our structure is, but I suggest that the media should stop calling me ex-Proud Boy leader,” – Enrique Tarrio
Meanwhile, online channels associated with the Proud Boys have been actively encouraging members to report individuals they suspect might be illegally residing in the country. This follows their discussions and fantasies about assisting in mass deportation plans under a potential second Trump term.
“fantasizing about being ‘deputized as ICE under Trump’s second term’ to aid in Trump’s mass deportation plan” – Proud Boys' channels online
In light of these developments, officers who testified during January 6 cases have expressed concerns over their safety. They fear repercussions now that some of the insurrectionists have been released. Additionally, law enforcement personnel who were present during the Capitol attack have voiced strong opposition against Trump's pardons or sentence commutations for those involved in assaulting or killing officers.
Amid these tensions, a new select subcommittee will delve into all events surrounding January 6. This initiative aims to provide clarity and transparency regarding what transpired before and after the insurrection. The committee's goal is to fulfill what they see as an owed truth to the American people.
Stewart Rhodes has also made headlines with his suggestion that January 6 should be commemorated as "patriots day." He even met with at least one lawmaker during a recent visit to Capitol Hill. Meanwhile, Enrique Tarrio remains vocal about his strategic vision.
“We gotta do everything in our power to make sure that the next four years sets us up for the next 100 years.” – Enrique Tarrio