Stewart Rhodes, the founder of the Oath Keepers, emerged at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday following his release from prison, thanks to a sweeping clemency order from former President Donald Trump. Rhodes had previously been convicted for leading a seditious conspiracy tied to the violent events of January 6, 2021, when a mob stormed the Capitol in an effort to obstruct the certification of President Joe Biden’s election victory. Rhodes took the opportunity during his visit to engage with lawmakers, maintaining his stance of non-responsibility for the chaos that unfolded that day.
During his discussions, Rhodes remarked, “I didn’t lead anything. So why should I feel responsible for that?” His visit coincided with a renewed effort by Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, who announced a special committee aimed at investigating the January 6 riot while simultaneously defending Trump’s actions during the event. Johnson expressed his belief in the potential for redemption, making it clear that he would not criticize the pardons granted by Trump.
Rhodes made a notable appearance at a Dunkin’ Donuts location within the Capitol complex, where he elaborated on his justification for his actions. Sporting a Trump 2020 hat, he claimed that he was present to advocate for another individual facing charges related to the riot, emphasizing that he was among a group whose sentences had been commuted. He expressed a desire for a full pardon for himself and others implicated in the insurrection, stating, “I think all of us should be pardoned.”
While Rhodes expressed hopes of eventually speaking with Trump, he clarified that he had not yet done so. He indicated a commitment to attending the Capitol as frequently as possible. Rhodes did not participate in the actual building breach on January 6, asserting that it was “stupid” for the Oath Keepers to do so, and framed the actions of his followers as misguided.
In the backdrop of Rhodes’ visit, judges in D.C. federal courts were busy dismissing numerous open cases related to January 6 defendants while expressing concerns regarding the impact of the presidential pardons. These judges underscored that the evidence surrounding the attack would remain unwavering, regardless of the narrative presented by those involved. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly pointed out the enduring integrity of trial records and judicial verdicts as a factual representation of the events.
Her counterpart, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who had overseen the case concerning Trump’s election interference prior to its dismissal, lamented the inability of Trump’s pardons to alter the historical reality of the attack. She highlighted that the pardons could not erase the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers who defended the Capitol that day.
Chutkan’s comments resonated with many, illustrating the judicial sentiment that the actions of rioters should not overshadow the valor shown by officers amid the chaos. Discussions surrounding the ramifications of the pardons were further ignited by Rhodes’ unexpected presence in the Capitol, prompting lawmaker inquiries about his potential threat to public safety and democratic integrity. Representative Jamie Raskin, who previously spearheaded Trump’s impeachment, questioned Rhodes’ motivations for showing up.
The emotions surrounding the day were further amplified by statements from police officers who had fought against the rioters. Officers expressed feelings of anger and exhaustion but emphasized their commitment to continuing to speak out regarding the events of January 6.
As legal proceedings regarding the riot unfold, the scale of the incident has become increasingly evident, with nearly 1,600 individuals charged and various outcomes for those cases, including guilty pleas and convictions. Tragically, over 130 police officers sustained injuries during the riot, with several later determining to end their lives due to the ensuing trauma.
In her remarks, Kollar-Kotelly asserted that the courageous actions taken by law enforcement officials amid overwhelming odds should never be undermined. The Capitol stands as a vital symbol of democracy, and the heroism of the officers who safeguarded it is a story that must be preserved, irrespective of political developments or actions taken in response to those events.
