Federal Judge Warns Against Blanket Pardons

U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, a Trump appointee, expressed significant disapproval regarding the prospect of mass pardons for January 6 Capitol rioters, stating it would be 'beyond frustrating and disappointing.' His comments arose during a hearing for a defendant, Edward Jacob Lang, whose trial was postponed until after Trump's anticipated return to the presidency. Judge Nichols highlighted the ongoing requests from defendants to delay their cases, which have largely been denied by the courts. Trump has previously referred to the rioters as 'patriots' and indicated he would consider pardoning individuals like Enrique Tarrio, the former Proud Boys leader. Nichols underscored that the decision to grant clemency rests solely with the president, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding Trump's potential actions once in office. This judicial commentary reflects a rare instance of a judge openly addressing the intersection of political decisions and ongoing legal proceedings related to the Capitol attack.