In a series of interviews, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) expressed his disapproval of President Donald Trump's recent pardons for those involved in the January 6 insurrection. The pardons, which affect approximately 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the Capitol attack, particularly those who assaulted police officers, were labeled a “mistake” by Graham. “Pardoning the people who went into the Capitol and beat up a police officer violently... seems to suggest that’s an okay thing to do,” he stated in an interview on NBC’s Meet the Press.

Graham's remarks were echoed during an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union, where he emphasized, “I think when you pardon people who attack police officers, you’re sending the wrong signal to the public at large.” He articulated concerns that such pardons could inspire further violence in the country. Referring specifically to the case of Daniel Rodriguez, a rioter who assaulted former officer Michael Fanone, Graham questioned the morality of pardoning individuals convicted of such serious crimes, especially in light of the dangers faced by law enforcement during the Capitol riot.

In criticizing Trump's actions, Graham did not shy away from also condemning former President Joe Biden, citing his pardons of family members. “I don’t like this. I don’t like it on either side,” said Graham. He argued that the ongoing pattern of executive clemency could warrant a reevaluation of the presidential pardon power, potentially prompting Congress to explore limitations. “I think most Americans see this as an abuse of the pardon power,” Graham added, reflecting a growing bipartisan concern over the implications of such pardons for law and order.

Graham, known as a staunch supporter of Trump, previously indicated this divergence on the issue may lead to further discussions within the GOP regarding the nature of presidential clemency, particularly when it involves violent offenders. For more details, visit The Daily Beast or read the full interview on HuffPost.

With Graham's criticism resonating within law enforcement circles, calls for a more measured approach to exercises of presidential power may gain traction in the coming months.