House Speaker Mike Johnson recently defended President Donald Trump's decision to pardon January 6 defendants, including those accused of committing acts of violence. Johnson emphasized his belief in 'redemption' when questioned about welcoming rioters back to the US Capitol.
Johnson pointed out that the president has the authority to issue pardons and commutations, stating that peaceful protesters should not be punished. He criticized what he described as the 'weaponization of the Justice Department' and referred to the post-January 6 period as a 'terrible chapter in America's history.'
Regarding Trump's decision to pardon the rioters, Johnson stated that he does not second-guess the president and reiterated his belief in redemption and second chances.
Following the January 6 attack, the Justice Department and FBI conducted a nationwide manhunt to identify and arrest rioters, resulting in over 1,580 individuals being charged and approximately 1,270 convictions secured.
Johnson also criticized former President Joe Biden's preemptive pardons for members of his family, describing the action as 'shocking' and 'breathtaking.' He highlighted the reactions of Democrats, including Biden, Sen. Adam Schiff, and Sen. Chuck Schumer, who were reportedly concerned about the possibility of Trump pardoning his family as he left office four years ago.
