In a dramatic move, President Trump has announced widespread pardons for nearly all of the 1,600 individuals charged in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The proclamation, issued on January 20, 2025, also includes commutations for several high-profile figures convicted for their roles in the events. The decision aims to address what Trump calls a "grave national injustice" and kickstart a process of healing and reconciliation. Among those receiving sentence commutations are Stewart Rhodes, Kelly Meggs, and Ethan Nordean. The President has also granted full pardons to all others convicted of offenses tied to the unrest at the Capitol. According to the directive, the Attorney General is instructed to issue pardon certificates immediately and ensure the release of all imprisoned individuals related to the Jan. 6 cases. Additionally, the Bureau of Prisons must comply promptly with Department of Justice guidelines to carry out these changes. This sweeping action marks a significant turn in the ongoing fallout from the Capitol riot, sparking both support and criticism nationwide. What this means for the nation’s path forward remains a topic of heated debate.