Trump Promises Pardons for Jan. 6 Defendants

President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to pardon many individuals convicted or charged for their involvement in the January 6 Capitol breach, stating that he will begin this process within his first hour in office, potentially as soon as the 'first nine minutes.' Trump emphasized that pardons would be granted on a case-by-case basis, particularly for those he deems 'non-violent,' while leaving open the possibility for violent offenders as well. He described many of the January 6 defendants as having been unduly punished and suffering greatly, arguing that a vast majority should not be in jail. The Department of Justice has warned that accepting a pardon would require a confession of guilt. Over 1,400 individuals have faced charges related to the Capitol riot, with many already pleading guilty. Trump's declaration comes as he has been named Time Magazine's 2024 Person of the Year, marking a significant political comeback after his previous presidency.