Senate Republicans recently blocked a resolution put forth by Democrats that aimed to condemn pardons for individuals convicted of assaulting Capitol Police officers. The resolution, led by Democratic Sen. Patty Murray of Washington, was presented with concise language in an attempt to pass by unanimous consent.
The resolution explicitly stated, ‘Resolved, That the Senate disapproves of any pardons for individuals who were found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police officers.’
However, GOP Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming objected to the resolution, highlighting the presidential pardons issued by President Joe Biden. Barrasso pointed out that President Biden had pardoned or reduced sentences for over 8,000 individuals, surpassing any previous president in history. He emphasized that the resolution failed to address what he referred to as the ‘Biden abuse of the pardon power,’ criticizing the pardons and commutations granted to individuals convicted of serious crimes such as killing police officers, murder, and rape.
The debate in the Senate reflects the ongoing political divide over the use of presidential pardon powers and the differing perspectives on addressing criminal justice issues. While Democrats sought to denounce pardons for those convicted of assaulting Capitol Police officers, Republicans raised concerns about broader pardon practices under the current administration.
