JD Vance breaks with Trump on January 6 pardons

JD Vance has made a surprising move, distancing himself from Donald Trump over the issue of pardoning January 6 rioters. This divide could lead to significant drama as Trump’s presidency resumes.

Trump has promised sweeping pardons for those involved in the Capitol riot. He’s vowed to act “very quickly” on Day 1 of his presidency.

Vance draws the line on violence

However, Vance is taking a different route. He’s made it clear that he doesn’t support pardoning those who were violent. In a Fox News interview, Vance said it was “very simple“—violent offenders should not be pardoned. However, he did leave room for those who peacefully protested, suggesting they might deserve clemency. “There’s a gray area in some cases,” Vance added, hinting at possible discretion. He stressed the importance of fairness.

“We’re committed to seeing equal justice under the law,” Vance said, noting that some people convicted after January 6 were unfairly prosecuted.

Trump’s broad approach to clemency

In contrast, Trump’s stance is much broader. He’s focused on the suffering of those convicted, offering pardons without much restriction. Trump also hinted that he might exclude individuals he considers “radical” or “crazy” from clemency.

A divided Republican front

As Inauguration Day nears, the division on this issue is becoming clearer. Trump is pushing for broad pardons for those involved in the attack. He’s promised to use his clemency power on Day 1 of his presidency, likely beginning January 20. “Most likely, I’ll do it very quickly,” he told NBC’s Meet the Press.

The rioters’ legal struggles

Over 1,500 people have been charged in connection with the riot. Some face misdemeanor charges for illegally entering the Capitol, while others, including Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders, have been convicted of seditious conspiracy. These charges are related to efforts to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden’s 2020 election win.

Support for full pardons grows

Many of Trump’s supporters, including Republican lawmakers, are pushing for a full pardon for all involved in the riot. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia argued that even those who fought Capitol Police should be released. “I think they’ve served their time, and I think they should all be pardoned and released from prison,” she said.

Vance defends his position

But Vance isn’t following this line. He’s defended his more cautious stance. “We care about people unjustly locked up,” he emphasized. In a post on X, he responded to criticism from rioter supporters. Vance clarified that his position doesn’t mean he’s walking back his support for clemency—it’s just more selective.

Vance clarifies his support for clemency

“I’ve been defending these guys for years,” Vance said. He reassured critics that his approach includes people who were provoked or given unfair trials.

This public split between Vance and Trump on pardons is causing waves in conservative circles. While Trump pushes for a broad, quick resolution, Vance’s more measured approach could lead to tensions, especially with January 20 approaching fast. The battle over who deserves a pardon continues to heat up, as both figures take differing stances on a sensitive issue.