Nearly All J6 Defendants Pardoned by Trump, Set for Potential Release Tonight

President Donald Trump issued a historic executive order on Monday, granting full pardons to nearly all individuals convicted in connection with the January 6 Capitol breach. The sweeping pardon covers approximately 1,500 defendants, with an additional 14 individuals receiving sentence commutations pending further review.

“So this is January 6 these are the hostages, approximately 1,500 for a pardon. Full pardon,” Trump announced from the Oval Office before signing the order. “We hope they come out tonight, frankly.”

In the executive order, Trump characterized the mass pardons as a step toward national healing.

“This proclamation ends a grave national injustice that has been perpetrated upon the American people over the last four years and begins a process of national reconciliation,” the order states.

The 14 individuals whose sentences were commuted include notable names such as Enrique Tarrio, the former Proud Boys leader who was serving a 22-year sentence, and Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers. According to NBC News, Tarrio is already being processed for release from FCI Pollock in Louisiana. His mother, Zuny Tarrio, celebrated on social media, writing, “Lord thank you!!! Tarrio is free!!!”

While nearly all J6 defendants received full pardons, the 14 individuals granted commutations will have their sentences reduced to time served. This group includes prominent figures in the January 6 cases, such as:

• Stewart Rhodes

• Kelly Meggs

• Jessica Watkins

• Ethan Nordean

• Joseph Biggs

• Zachary Rehl

• Dominic Pezzola

These individuals were convicted on charges ranging from conspiracy to seditious activity, but Trump’s order commutes their sentences effective immediately.

Journalist Julie Kelly, who has covered the January 6 trials extensively, praised the move, calling it an end to years of injustice. On X, she noted, “There are 14 individuals whose sentences are commuted and they will review the cases for pardons.”

The order, signed on Trump’s first full day of his second term, represents a major policy shift and a direct rebuke of how the cases were handled by federal prosecutors under the previous administration. Trump’s use of his Article II, Section 2 constitutional authority to issue such sweeping pardons underscores his commitment to what he calls the restoration of justice and constitutional freedoms.

With many individuals already being processed for release, Trump’s bold move has reignited debate over the events of January 6 and their broader implications for the nation.

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