The campaign of independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently sent out a fundraising email referring to Jan. 6 defendants as “activists” who have been “stripped of their Constitutional liberties,” similar to former President Donald Trump’s rhetoric regarding the U.S. Capitol riot. The appeal, signed by “Team Kennedy,” also called for the exoneration of “political prisoner Julian Assange” and suggested he, along with Jan. 6 defendants, are victims of prosecutorial abuse. However, a spokesperson later clarified that the language was an error and did not reflect Kennedy’s views.
Currently, there are just 15 Jan. 6 defendants being held in pretrial detention, many of whom are credibly accused of violence against law enforcement officials. Some have a history of violence, such as previous killings or setting off explosives in police-filled tunnels. Additionally, some are charged with firing weapons or conspiring to commit violent acts against FBI employees. While more than 1,350 people have been charged in connection with the Capitol attack, prosecutors have secured over 950 convictions, with varying sentences ranging from probation to 22 years in federal prison for serious charges like seditious conspiracy.
Kennedy, in an interview with Fox News, stated that if elected president, he would use his pardon power to quickly pardon Assange and Snowden, but would consider individual cases when asked about Jan. 6 defendants. He also mentioned last year that he would consider pardoning Jan. 6 defendants if prosecutorial malfeasance was shown. Kennedy has also made controversial statements about President Joe Biden being a bigger threat to democracy than Trump due to alleged censorship of political critics, but later clarified that both Biden and Trump have issues and neither are likely to destroy democracy.
The Kennedy campaign did not immediately provide comment on the fundraising email and views expressed regarding Jan. 6 defendants, Assange, and Snowden. The campaign’s stance on pardoning individuals involved in the Capitol attack may continue to be a point of contention and discussion throughout the election cycle. Kennedy’s comparison of Biden and Trump in terms of threats to democracy also highlights the ongoing political divides in the United States. As the presidential campaign moves forward, Kennedy’s views on these issues will likely continue to be scrutinized and debated by both supporters and critics.
Overall, the fundraising email from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s campaign has sparked controversy due to its reference to Jan. 6 defendants as “activists” and calls for the exoneration of Assange and Snowden. The campaign’s stance on prosecuting individuals involved in the Capitol attack and the comparison of Biden and Trump in terms of threats to democracy have raised questions and concerns among supporters and critics. Kennedy’s views on these issues will likely play a significant role in shaping public opinion and discussion surrounding the upcoming presidential election.
