Trump says he would give ‘full pardons with an apology’ to Capitol rioters if he wins in 2024

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• Former President Trump said he would give “full pardons” and apologize to those convicted in connection with the Jan. 6 Capitol riots if he wins in 2024.
• Trump also said he is “financially supporting people” involved in the attack.
• THe former president has hinted that he will run for the presidency again in 2024, but has not confirmed any bid.

Former President Donald Trump said Thursday he would pardon and apologize to the hundreds of people who participated in the US Capitol attack on January 6 if he were elected to the White House again.

“I mean full pardons with an apology to many,” he told conservative radio host Wendy Bell. “I will be looking very, very strongly about pardons, full pardons.”

Five deaths were reported in connection with the Capitol attack and over 140 law enforcement officers were injured. More than 860 people have been charged with crimes related to January 6, with 350 people having pleaded guilty to crimes so far.

The former president also said he was offering financial support to some people involved in the attack.

“I am financially supporting people that are incredible and they were in my office actually two days ago, so they’re very much in my mind,” Trump said. “It’s a disgrace what they’ve done to them.

Trump did not elaborate on the details of the financial assistance and Bell did not ask for clarification.

The House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack laid out extensive evidence that Trump encouraged his supporters to go to the Capitol and refused efforts to appease the crowd.

Trump has repeatedly hinted that he will run for reelection in 2024 but has not confirmed any bid. He is the overwhelming favorite to be the Republican nominee as his hold on the GOP and its base remains strong.

Trump’s remarks came the same day that a retired New York police officer was sentenced to 10 years in prison, the longest sentence yet handed down in a case related to the attack. Thomas Webster was found guilty of assaulting a Washington DC police officer and pulled his gas mask off.

When Bell asked if he would announce his candidacy on the show, Trump responded, “Well, the time is coming closer and I think you’re gonna be really happy.”

Trump’s interview comes on the same day that President Joe Biden delivers a speech from Philadelphia about protecting democracy.

Source: The Hill