Senator Lindsey Graham has come out strongly against former President Donald Trump’s decision to pardon several individuals who were involved in the violent insurrection at the Capitol on January 6th. Graham, a close ally of Trump, has been a vocal critic of the pardons, calling them “a slap in the face to every law-abiding American.”
In a statement released on Monday, Graham expressed his outrage over Trump’s decision to pardon individuals who were charged with violent crimes during the attack on the Capitol. “These pardons send the wrong message to those who seek to undermine our democracy and incite violence,” Graham said. “They are a betrayal of the oath of office that every elected official takes to uphold the Constitution and protect our nation.”
Graham’s criticism of the pardons comes as a surprise to many, given his close relationship with Trump and his previous support for the former president’s policies. However, Graham has not shied away from speaking out against Trump when he believes it is necessary, and he has been a vocal critic of the former president’s actions in the aftermath of the January 6th attack.
The pardons issued by Trump have been met with widespread condemnation from both Democrats and Republicans, with many lawmakers expressing concern over the message they send to those who engage in violent and seditious behavior. The pardons have also raised questions about Trump’s motivations, with some speculating that he may be using the pardons as a way to reward his supporters and allies.
Graham’s criticism of the pardons is a significant development in the ongoing debate over Trump’s actions on January 6th and their consequences. As one of Trump’s closest allies in the Senate, Graham’s condemnation of the pardons carries weight and may prompt other Republicans to speak out against the former president’s actions.
In his statement, Graham called on Trump to reconsider his decision to pardon the individuals involved in the attack on the Capitol. “I urge the former president to reconsider these pardons and to do what is right for the country,” Graham said. “We cannot allow violence and lawlessness to go unpunished, no matter who is responsible.”
It remains to be seen how Trump will respond to Graham’s criticism, but the senator’s statement is a clear indication that there is growing opposition to the pardons among Republicans. As the debate over Trump’s actions on January 6th continues to unfold, Graham’s outspoken condemnation of the pardons may serve as a turning point in the ongoing discussion about accountability and justice in the aftermath of the Capitol attack.