Donald Trump‘s Support for Capitol Rioters
Former President Donald J. Trump has shown unwavering support for the individuals involved in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Just days before his own legal troubles, Trump gathered with the rioters and their families at his New Jersey golf club, promising fair treatment if he secured another term in office.
Public Embrace of Capitol Rioters
Despite the numerous convictions and guilty pleas related to the Capitol breach, Trump has chosen to depict the rioters as “hostages” and regularly plays recordings of them singing the national anthem from their jail cells at his campaign events. He even considered visiting a Washington jail where some rioters are held.
Risk of Inciting Violence
By glorifying the actions of the Capitol rioters and portraying them as victims, Trump may be fueling further violence among his most ardent supporters. This normalization of violence as a response to political grievances could have dangerous repercussions, according to experts.
Trump’s Focus on Capitol Riot
While most politicians would avoid highlighting an event as divisive as the Capitol riot, Trump has made it a central theme of his 2024 presidential campaign. His attention to Jan. 6 contrasts with President Biden’s condemnation of the attack as one of the nation’s darkest days.
Altered Perception of Capitol Riot
Initially disavowing the Capitol riot, Trump has since aligned himself with revisionist accounts of the events. He has downplayed the violence and even suggested pardoning those involved. His reversal on the attack reflects his efforts to solidify his support base by characterizing them as victims of a corrupt justice system.
Trump’s Engagement with Capitol Riot Defendants
Recognizing the significance of Jan. 6 to his supporters, Trump has engaged with defendants and their advocates to bolster his image as a champion of those persecuted by the government. His campaign focuses on restoring justice to citizens unfairly targeted by the current administration.
Read More of this Story at www.nytimes.com – 2024-04-13 19:28:32
Read More US Politics
