In a sweeping move, former President Donald Trump has granted full pardons to over 1,000 people charged in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Among those pardoned are leaders of far-right groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, who were convicted of seditious conspiracy. Trump referred to the pardoned individuals as “hostages” during a statement from the Oval Office, emphasizing his decision to grant “full, complete, and unconditional” clemency. This includes people convicted of serious offenses, such as assaulting police officers and destroying property during the riot. Notable among the pardoned is Julian Khater, who pleaded guilty to assaulting Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick with a dangerous weapon. Others, like Devlyn Thompson and Robert Palmer, were convicted of attacking officers with weapons ranging from metal batons to fire extinguishers. The pardons also led to the immediate release of two brothers, Andrew and Matthew Valentin, who had been sentenced to two-and-a-half years for assaulting police during the siege. The January 6 attack left more than 140 police officers injured and resulted in the deaths of four rioters and five officers. Despite this, Trump has repeatedly called the day one of “love and peace,” a claim contradicted by video evidence of violent clashes. Critics, including the brother of fallen officer Brian Sicknick, have condemned the pardons, calling them a betrayal to those who suffered during the insurrection. Craig Sicknick urged supporters to oppose the move, stating it allows rioters to “evade responsibility.” While Trump’s base largely supports the pardons, polls show most Americans oppose clemency for those involved in the Capitol attack. Independent voters and a majority of registered voters are against the move, with some surveys showing over 60% opposition. The pardons do not erase criminal records but restore civil rights like voting and gun ownership. Meanwhile, commutations reduce prison sentences without forgiving the crimes. This decision marks one of the most controversial acts of Trump’s presidency, reigniting debates over accountability and justice for the events of January 6. *This story has been updated with additional developments.* ---