Condemn insurrection pardons, defend democracy against anti-democratic forces

The president's decision to pardon and commute the sentences of those involved in the January 6th insurrection is an affront to our democracy and the rule of law. The violent actions on that day were a direct attack on the peaceful transfer of power and the will of the voters. Absolving the perpetrators of consequences enables and emboldens future acts of extremism aimed at overturning legitimate election results. We must hold those responsible fully accountable through the legal process, not undermine it with pardons. The insurrectionists sought to silence the voices of millions of Americans through violence and intimidation – granting them clemency disrespects everyone who participated in our elections in good faith. Defending our democratic institutions from anti-democratic forces should be a paramount priority. I urge you to condemn this abuse of the pardon power and uphold the pursuit of justice for the unconscionable acts committed on January 6th.