1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am deeply concerned about the recent pardons issued by President Donald Trump related to the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot investigation. These pardons, granted to Suzanne Ellen Kaye and Daniel Edwin Wilson, raise serious questions about the appropriate use of presidential pardon power and the potential undermining of our justice system. Suzanne Ellen Kaye was convicted of threatening to shoot FBI agents investigating her possible presence at the Capitol. She had already served an 18-month sentence for her actions. The White House's justification citing 'stress-induced seizures' and framing this as a First Amendment issue is troubling, as it downplays the severity of threatening law enforcement officers. Even more concerning is the pardon of Daniel Edwin Wilson. He was sentenced to five years in prison for conspiring to impede police officers and illegal firearm possession. The White House's claim that the search of Wilson's home "should not have occurred" sets a dangerous precedent, potentially interfering with legitimate law enforcement investigations. These pardons appear to be part of a pattern of support for those involved in the January 6 events, which have resulted in charges against over 1,500 defendants. This use of presidential power could be seen as an attempt to obstruct justice and undermine the ongoing investigation into one of the most significant attacks on our democracy in recent history. I urge you to initiate a thorough investigation into these pardons and their broader implications. We need to ensure that the presidential pardon power is not being abused to protect individuals who have committed serious crimes against our nation. The integrity of our justice system and the rule of law are at stake. Please take immediate action to examine the legality and appropriateness of these pardons, and consider proposing legislation to prevent future abuses of the pardon power. Our democracy depends on accountability and the proper use of executive authority.