Trump Strengthens Ties with Jan. 6 Rioters amid Looming Trials
TL/DR –
Donald Trump is working to align himself with those accused or convicted of crimes related to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, referring to them as “hostages” and promising to pardon them if he returns to power. This is part of his broader strategy of using increasingly violent and divisive language as he secures the Republican nomination. While his rhetoric is popular among some Trump supporters, it is causing concern among other Republicans who worry it could alienate general election voters.
Trump’s Increased Support for January 6th Defendants
During a recent rally, Donald Trump displayed solidarity with the January 6th Capitol riot defendants, whom he referred to as ‘hostages’. Amplifying through the loudspeakers was a rendition of the national anthem performed by individuals accused or convicted of crimes related to the riot.
Trump’s Pledge to Help the Defendants
Trump ignited the rally with a commitment to assist the defendants, a group he has lauded as ‘patriots’ and ‘hostages’. He pledged to pardon them if he regains power, declaring this as an immediate task once back in office.
Trump’s Strategy of Aligning with the Rioters
This pledge aligns with Trump’s broader strategy of supporting the January 6th defendants as he intensifies his rhetoric in pursuit of the Republican nomination. His speeches during this campaign cycle have increasingly referred to the defendants as ‘political prisoners‘ or ‘hostages’.
Trump’s Escalating Legal Challenges
The surge in his rhetoric coincides with growing legal challenges, including a significant bond his lawyers claim he cannot finance, and four separate criminal cases.
Trump’s GOP Nomination and Misrepresentation Concerns
Despite securing the GOP nomination rapidly, some Republicans express concerns that his distortions of the January 6th attack could damage his standing with general election voters. These Republicans include Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), who has openly critiqued Trump’s rhetoric.
Trump’s Promises and Threats
In December, Trump remarked that he’d govern as a ‘dictator‘ on his first day in office. He subsequently added that he would ‘Free the January 6 Hostages’. His threats have included warnings of ‘bedlam’ and a ‘bloodbath’.
Trump’s Continued Support for January 6th Defendants
Trump’s support for the defendants has remained unwavering, with recent posts promoting vigils outside the Washington jail for the incarcerated defendants. He refers to these individuals as ‘hostages’ and promises their release upon his return to power.
Public Opinion on January 6th Defendants
A December poll found that 58% of Americans view the Capitol entry as threatening democracy. Furthermore, a Post analysis revealed that federal judges have sentenced over half of the roughly 1,200 charged individuals.
Critics’ Responses to Trump’s Rhetoric
Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah), a vocal critic of Trump, has labeled the term ‘hostages’ as ‘offensive in the extreme’, adding to the growing chorus of critics concerned about Trump’s rhetoric and misrepresentations of the January 6th event.
—
Read More US News