1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

The January 6th attack on the Capitol was an assault on American democracy itself. Pardoning those involved would send a dangerous message condoning political violence and undermining the rule of law. While some defendants faced relatively minor charges, many were convicted of serious crimes like assaulting law enforcement officers or conspiring to forcibly overturn the results of a free and fair election. Granting pardons would disrespect the bravery of the Capitol Police and other officers who defended the Capitol that day, some losing their lives in the process. It would also ignore the terrorizing impact the rioters had on members of Congress simply carrying out their constitutional duties. Pardons would effectively validate the rioters' actions and potentially inspire future political violence from those rejecting legitimate election results. For the long-term health of American democracy, it is crucial to allow the judicial process to reach its conclusion and hold accountable those who engaged in this attack on the peaceful transfer of power. Preserving faith in democratic institutions requires ensuring there are real consequences for attempting to subvert them through force. Unilateral pardons would only further divide the nation at a time when healing and reaffirming shared commitment to constitutional order is paramount.