The fallout from the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack continues to stir controversy, with Presidents Trump and Biden taking opposing stances through dueling pardons. On Monday, Trump granted clemency to individuals involved in the assault, while Biden shielded those who investigated the event from potential legal repercussions. The clash underscores how the once-bipartisan condemnation of the Capitol riot has fractured over time. Four years ago, both Republicans and Democrats agreed that the violence was a low point for American democracy. But today, the event has become a political Rorschach test, with interpretations split along party lines. Trump’s pardons signal his belief that the rioters were unfairly targeted by a biased justice system. By clearing their records, he reinforces the narrative that they were victims, not criminals. Meanwhile, Biden’s pardons protect members of the Jan. 6 Committee and injured officers who testified, ensuring they won’t face retaliatory legal action. The move has sparked debate. Critics argue that Biden’s pardons imply wrongdoing by the committee, while supporters see them as a necessary safeguard against political persecution. As the nation grapples with the legacy of Jan. 6, these pardons highlight the deep divisions over what happened that day—and what it means for the future of American democracy. ---