In a surprising development, former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio and Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes have been released following presidential pardons issued by Donald Trump. This act aligns with Trump's ongoing narrative of the January 6 riots as a politically motivated attack against individuals he views as heroes. Both leaders had received significant prison sentences for their involvement in planning the Capitol attack. The Proud Boys, known for their racist and anti-LGBTQ+ actions, continue to pose a threat to marginalized communities. In contrast, the Oath Keepers actively oppose government actions they deem unconstitutional.
Trump made rewriting the history of the Jan. 6 attack a centerpiece of his bid to return to the White House, and the pardon of the rioters fulfills a campaign pledge.
The Proud Boys are racist and anti-LGBTQ+. They are known for attacking drag queen story hours, among at least 69 anti-LGBTQ+ incidents committed between 2022 and 2024.
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