Mike Pence Criticizes Trump for Jan. 6 Pardons, Tariff Policies

Former Vice President Mike Pence issued strong criticism of Donald Trump in a recent CNN interview, expressing deep disappointment over Trump’s decision to pardon individuals convicted of violent acts during the January 6 Capitol riot, saying it 'sent the wrong message.' Pence, who was recently awarded the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for refusing to block the certification of the 2020 election, highlighted his view that pardoning those who attacked law enforcement was inappropriate. He also voiced significant concerns about Trump’s broad-based tariff policies, warning they could lead to inflation and harm American consumers, and advocated instead for targeted trade measures against authoritarian regimes while lowering barriers with allies. Pence, who has not endorsed Trump, emphasized his ongoing commitment to conservative values and a willingness to speak out despite his current lack of elected office. In his remarks, he underscored the importance of finding common ground for the nation's future, even as he called out Trump’s economic and post-January 6 actions. Pence’s comments mark a notable escalation in his public criticism of the former president since leaving office.