Media personality Geraldo Rivera stated that President-elect Trump would be justified in pardoning certain Jan. 6 Capitol rioters, distinguishing between extremist groups like the Proud Boys and average participants who, he argued, were misled by Trump’s rhetoric.
Rivera emphasized that the Capitol attack was a grave event that must never be repeated but said many individuals involved have already faced severe consequences. Trump has repeatedly promised to pardon Jan. 6 defendants upon returning to office, drawing backlash from lawmakers and law enforcement officials.
The Justice Department reports over 1,500 charges stemming from the riot, including more than 600 for assaulting or obstructing law enforcement. Critics argue that pardoning participants would undermine accountability for the violent attack.
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