Following the Capitol riot in 2021, many participants face lengthy prison sentences, yet former President Trump portrays them as victims. A recent solidarity march in Washington drew only four attendees, with organizers blaming security measures for the low turnout. Trump supporters, viewing those charged as political prisoners, advocate for their pardons. Amid heightened security for Congress’s session to affirm the election results, the atmosphere contrasts sharply with the chaos of January 6, 2021, as vigilance remains a priority.
Long Sentences for Capitol Rioters
In the aftermath of the Capitol riot in 2021, many individuals involved have received lengthy prison sentences. Despite this, former President Trump has effectively framed these individuals as victims in the eyes of his supporters.
The Ironic Gathering in Washington
This past weekend in Washington, the chilling atmosphere was underscored by an ironic twist. Two SUVs, proudly displaying Trump flags, were parked just two blocks away from the Capitol, where a solidarity march for the Capitol rioters was set to take place. Yet, only four attendees showed up.
Co-organizer Jamie Crowe from Pennsylvania voiced frustrations about the low turnout, attributing it to the security fences in place that obstructed the originally designated meeting point. These fences were established to prevent a recurrence of the very events that Jamie continues to defend.
President Biden has urged the nation to remember the chaos that unfolded on January 6, 2021.
According to Jamie, “The Capitol is the people’s house; everyone is allowed to express their opinion,” asserting that the events of that day should not be labeled as an insurrection, despite the more than 140 police officers injured and several lives lost.
Many Trump supporters view the over 1,500 demonstrators who have been charged and convicted—some receiving severe prison sentences—as political prisoners.
Transforming Perpetrators into Victims
Supporters like Edward Young from New Jersey, who has attended vigils for the “J6ers” multiple times, believe the trials were unjust. Young, donning a Trump scarf and buttons, identifies as part of the January 6 crowd, stating, “I actually belong to them. I was there on January 6 too. I just didn’t go inside.” He expressed concern over the FBI’s pressure on him following the events.
Trump has continued to advocate for the pardoning of those involved in the January 6 uprising, claiming he would act swiftly upon regaining office. He has referred to the rioters as martyrs, even incorporating a song titled “Justice for All” into his campaign, which features inmates singing the national anthem alongside his quotes.
Trump has also criticized lawmakers like Liz Cheney, who holds him accountable for the riots, stating that they deserve prison instead of the rioters. Cheney, who has been both vilified and celebrated within political circles, recently received the “Presidential Citizens Medal” from President Biden.
Current polls suggest that Trump’s narrative resonates with his base, as nearly 70 percent of his supporters view the potential pardons as warranted.
As Congress convenes to affirm the presidential election results, Vice President Kamala Harris will oversee the session, promising a peaceful transfer of power—a stark contrast to the tumult four years prior.
In light of the previous unrest, security measures are heightened, with thousands of police officers deployed to ensure safety. Although no threats of violence have been reported, Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “We are all on high alert.”
Despite their low turnout, supporters of the January 6 participants remain undeterred, with some claiming that the Democratic Party lacks the conviction to stand for anything meaningful.