President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to consider pardoning individuals convicted for their roles in the 2021 US Capitol riot as one of his first actions after taking office on January 20.
Speaking during an interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, Trump described the treatment of the riot convicts as “hell” and expressed intentions to act swiftly.
“These people are living in hell,” Trump said, adding, “They’ve been in there for years, and they’re in a filthy, disgusting place that shouldn’t even be allowed to be open. First day, we’ll look at independent cases.”
Trump’s comments mark his first broadcast interview since winning the November election, signaling a readiness to issue numerous executive orders covering immigration, energy, and economic policies upon inauguration.
Trump reiterated his pledge to end birthright citizenship, which grants US citizenship to anyone born on American soil, regardless of their parents’ nationality.
He called for the reinterpretation or repeal of the 14th Amendment, stating, “We’re going to have to get it changed. We’ll maybe have to go back to the people. But we have to end it.”
The Republican also promised to deport undocumented immigrants, including those with US citizen family members, but said he would explore measures to avoid separating families.
On the issue of Dreamers, young undocumented immigrants shielded under the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, Trump offered to work with Democrats on a potential solution.
“Some of these immigrants have good jobs and businesses. I will work with the Democrats on a plan,” he said.
Trump appeared to send conflicting messages regarding his stance on prosecuting political adversaries. While he criticized members of the Democratic-led committee that investigated the Capitol riot, calling for their imprisonment, he also indicated a broader focus on moving forward.
“I’m not looking to go back into the past. I’m looking to make our country successful,” he said.
However, he added, “If political opponents were crooked, if they did something wrong, if they have broken the law, probably they should be investigated.”
Outgoing President Joe Biden recently issued a controversial pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, sparking speculation about additional pardons for political allies before leaving office. Trump suggested he would not immediately pursue investigations into the Biden family but left the possibility open.
Trump’s comments drew backlash from political opponents, with former Republican congresswoman Liz Cheney, a member of the Capitol riot investigation committee, accusing him of undermining the rule of law.
“His remarks are a continuation of his assault on the foundations of our republic,” Cheney said.
As Trump prepares to take office, his promises of swift action and retribution underscore the contentious political climate in Washington, setting the stage for a turbulent start to his presidency.
