Stuart Calls Out Trump for Pardoning Convicted Criminals, not Cutting Costs for Families in House Resolution

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, is formally condemning the pardons of criminals who attacked police officers and tried to stop the peaceful transfer of power on January 6, 2021. Stuart criticized the decision to free more than 1,000 criminals who attacked law enforcement officers, rather than focusing on the issues that unite people like reducing the cost of living and expanding opportunity for families.

“Protecting and supporting our law enforcement officers should not be a divisive issue, and presidential pardons for criminals we all saw attack officers should never be a question,” said Stuart. “Instead, we need to be focused on the things that unite people. No one asked for these criminals to walk free. We asked for real action to bring down costs at the grocery store, to expand access to housing, and to strengthen our manufacturing jobs. It’s sad to see the president’s priorities are so far from ours.”

The Stuart-backed House Resolution 118 laid out in clear language the violence, destruction and lethality of the January 6 insurrection, reminding House members and Illinoisans that this was the focus of President Trump’s Day One policies, not the soaring cost of groceries, gas, housing, utilities and the basic goods and services taxpayers need.

On Jan. 6, 2021, insurrectionists violently attacked police officers, injuring hundreds. Four officers died as a result. Immediately after being sworn in on Jan. 20, 2025, the President proceeded to fully pardon 1,500 insurrectionists, 1,030 of whom admitted their own guilt for their actions.

“Law enforcement officers need our support now more than ever, and I am proud to be a supporter of law enforcement officers not only in our community but across the state as well,” Stuart said. “Law enforcement officers have given so much to our communities, and it’s time we give back to those who protect us. I will continue my efforts to support and protect law enforcement officers both in my district and here in Springfield.”