On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump, on his first day back in office, issued pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.  

Among those pardoned were Enrique Tarrio, former leader of the Proud Boys, and Stewart Rhodes, leader of the Oath Keepers, both previously convicted of seditious conspiracy.  

This sweeping clemency fulfills Trump’s campaign promise to absolve participants of the Capitol riot, whom he has referred to as “political prisoners.”  

In contrast, outgoing President Joe Biden issued preemptive pardons to family members and key officials, including Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired General Mark Milley, aiming to shield them from potential prosecutions under the new administration.  

These actions underscore the deepening political divisions in the United States.