Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) recently criticized former President Donald Trump’s decision to pardon individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. McConnell, in an interview with CBS’s 60 Minutes, explained that he believed it was a mistake to grant pardons to people convicted of crimes related to the riot.
After leaving office, Trump issued pardons to nearly 1,600 people charged in connection with the Capitol riot and commuted the sentences of several others. He also instructed the Justice Department to dismiss pending cases for many individuals still awaiting trial.
The Capitol attack led to over 600 individuals facing charges, ranging from assaulting law enforcement officers to more serious offenses like sedition. McConnell has long been a critical voice regarding the events of January 6, which led to a major divide within the Republican Party. While McConnell did not vote to convict Trump during his impeachment trial following the riot, he has stated that Trump bears responsibility for provoking the violence.
In the interview, McConnell acknowledged that his relationship with Trump has become strained, noting that they haven’t spoken in some time and that he was deeply troubled by the events of January 6. He also addressed Trump’s and his supporters’ attempt to downplay the seriousness of the attack. McConnell rejected claims that the riot was anything but an insurrection, pushing back against efforts to portray the day in a more favorable light.
McConnell’s comments reflect the complex situation within the GOP as the party grapples with its future and its connection to Trump. While Trump continues to hold significant influence over the party’s base, McConnell’s criticism shows a more cautious and critical approach to handling the aftermath of the Capitol riot.