U.S. House Democrats and Ex-Police Rage Against Trump’s Jan. 6 Pardon Promise

WASHINGTON — Tennessee Democratic U.S. Representative Steve Cohen, along with former U.S. Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell and former D.C. police officer Michael Fanone, expressed strong disapproval on Wednesday regarding President-elect Donald Trump’s intention to pardon individuals charged in connection with the January 6, 2021, insurrection.

During a press call organized by the Not Above the Law coalition, a collective of pro-democracy advocates, the trio underscored the implications of such pardons for the rule of law in the United States. They conveyed that offering pardons to those who participated in the violent assault would undermine the integrity of the judicial process.

Trump has publicly stated his intent to issue pardons for those prosecuted due to the riot, wherein his supporters stormed the Capitol in a bid to disrupt Congress’s certification of President Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory. Cohen, who serves on the House Judiciary Committee and advocates for limiting presidential pardons, insisted on accountability for Trump’s actions leading to the attack.

Cohen asserted that pardoning those involved in the insurrection would serve to “absolve” Trump of his culpability in inciting the violence. “If it weren’t for Donald Trump, this would not have occurred,” he remarked, suggesting that Trump’s proposal would merely allow him to ease his conscience at the expense of those still facing legal repercussions.

Gonell echoed the dismay over Trump’s remarks regarding pardons, describing them as “devastating.” He further emphasized the necessity of remembering the officers who lost their lives amid the chaos, distinct from how Trump labeled the insurrectionists. “History will remember those officers who died as a result of the insurrection,” he noted, invoking the names of five officers and urging the public to acknowledge their sacrifice.

Fanone, who endured brutal violence during the Capitol attack, recounted his personal experience as a stark representation of the extremism associated with the event. He highlighted the severe injuries he suffered, including a heart attack and a concussion, while confronting the rage and hostility displayed on that day.

Trump has referred to the rioters as “political prisoners” but has not clarified whether he would pardon individuals charged with violent crimes, such as assaults on police officers. Nevertheless, he affirmed his commitment to issuing major pardons, raising concerns among critics regarding his intentions for those proven guilty of serious offenses.

The fallout from the January 6 attack continues, with over 1,500 people facing charges. As discussions about potential pardons unfold, the implications for accountability and justice remain significant.

Last updated 2:58 p.m., Jan. 8, 2025