Category: Law and Order

Trump’s Executive Order Removes Check By Courts And Into Another Constitutional Crisis

Former President Donald Trump has signed a troubling executive order granting him unprecedented power over independent regulatory agencies, threatening their autonomy established to shield them from political interference. This directive specifically affects agencies such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation but intentionally excludes the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors, illustrating a careful manipulation of power dynamics to serve his administration’s interests.

The executive order mandates that these independent agencies must now submit all new regulations to the White House and form liaison offices, effectively placing them under White House control. The order further stipulates that the president and the attorney general have the sole authority to interpret laws, raising significant constitutional concerns and effectively undermining the judicial branch’s role in the federal government.

Trump’s push for expanded executive power indicates a strategic move to centralize governmental control and replace nonpartisan legal oversight with his administration’s loyalty-driven agenda. Law experts highlight that this order isn’t merely about regulation oversight; it represents a blatant disregard for the independence of these agencies and the principles of democratic governance. Legal experts regard Trump’s insistence on loyalty from government employees as an erosion of foundational democratic norms.

Under this directive, Trump has already dismissed several heads of independent agencies, prompting legal challenges that label these firings as illegal. The president’s aggressive aim to consolidate control is underscored in the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, which advocates dismantling independent agencies altogether, claiming they do not fit within constitutional parameters.

The order may result in severe ramifications for financial and labor regulatory frameworks in the United States, with fears of regulatory instability as Trump’s administration will introduce significant shifts with each election cycle. Such actions are reflective of a broader agenda towards authoritarianism, showcasing an alarming effort to dismantle the checks and balances that are vital to American democracy.

(h/t: https://www.npr.org/2025/02/19/nx-s1-5302481/trump-independent-agencies)

Trump’s Loyalty Tests Corrupt National Security Hiring and Threaten Democracy

Donald Trump is imposing loyalty tests on candidates for top national security and law enforcement positions within his administration. These tests often revolve around two critical events: the false claims surrounding the 2020 election results and the January 6 Capitol attack. Candidates have been asked to affirm unsubstantiated narratives, such as whether January 6 was an “inside job” or if the election was “stolen.” Those who refuse to validate these fabrications find themselves sidelined in the hiring process.

Former officials seeking positions in Trump’s administration reported being pressured to conform to these expectations, effectively requiring them to abandon their integrity. Even under normal circumstances, political alignment with the administration is standard practice; however, demanding a specific loyalty regarding false claims erodes the fundamental objectivity that national security roles require. Intelligence professionals must provide accurate assessments, unclouded by partisan preferences, a principle undermined by Trump’s authoritarian policies.

The implications of this loyalty purge extend to the inner workings of the FBI and intelligence agencies, where extensive vetting processes now scrutinize candidates’ past political statements and affiliations. Reports indicate that even seasoned agents have been thrust into uncomfortable positions, with inquiries targeting their views on the Capitol insurrection and the legitimacy of the election. Their fates have become entangled in a politically charged atmosphere, turning traditional roles into partisan battlegrounds.

Dissent against these loyalty tests has emerged within the ranks of former intelligence officials, emphasizing that adherence to truth is paramount for effective governance. Some observers draw parallels with historical instances of purges related to loyalty during political upheaval, such as the McCarthy era. Trump’s pursuit of loyalty to a personal agenda within the intelligence community marks a dangerous precedent, reminiscent of the Nixon administration’s attempts to manipulate federal agencies for personal gain.

The overarching goal appears clear: to reshape federal agencies to align with Trump’s vision, disregarding established norms and ethical conduct. This strategy of using political loyalty as a litmus test threatens not only the integrity of U.S. intelligence but also the very fabric of democratic governance. As Trump continues his quest for power, the erosion of nonpartisan intelligence oversight poses significant risks to national security and the rule of law.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/02/08/trump-administration-job-candidates-loyalty-screening/)

Trump’s Dangerous Proposal to Outsource American Criminals Exposes Authoritarian Shift

Former President Donald Trump recently expressed enthusiasm for the possibility of sending American criminals to foreign prisons, such as those in El Salvador. During a press conference, he seemingly endorsed the idea as a cost-effective measure to deal with “hardened criminals” in the U.S., implying that relocating these individuals would alleviate the burden on American prison systems. Trump’s comments reveal a troubling willingness to offload responsibility for crime management onto other countries, reinforcing a disturbing trend toward authoritarianism.

Trump’s rationale included disturbing references to violent crimes, suggesting that these individuals are nothing short of “animals” who threaten public safety. His categorization of offenders and the characterization of them as being beyond rehabilitation reveals a fascist perspective, prioritizing punitive measures over restorative justice and rehabilitation. This reflects a broader Republican mindset that often demonizes individuals rather than seeking to understand the complexities of crime and societal issues.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent discussions with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, who offered to house American criminals in his country’s notorious prisons, illustrate the potential implications of Trump’s proposal. This arrangement would not only evade the complexities of U.S. justice but also facilitate a troubling outsourcing of law enforcement responsibilities to a nation with its own serious human rights issues. Such a move underscores the ethical concerns surrounding the treatment of individuals in foreign prison systems.

This proposed plan connects to Trump’s ongoing anti-immigration rhetoric, where he conflates illegal migrants with American criminals, furthering a narrative that fosters division and fear. By suggesting that criminals could be relocated while simultaneously dehumanizing them, Trump seeks to distract from systemic issues in law enforcement and the justice system itself, aiming to shift the narrative away from Republican failures to address crime effectively.

Ultimately, Trump’s idea highlights a regression in values that is emblematic of Republican ideologies—favoring retribution over rehabilitation, and authoritarian solutions over democratic discourse. The unsettling implication of such proposals only reinforces the urgency for a critical reevaluation of how criminal justice is approached in America, as well as a rejection of the divisive and unethical tactics employed by Trump and his allies.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/politics/id-be-very-happy-trump-floats-sending-jailed-u-s-citizens-to-prisons-in-el-salvador/)

Trump Purges 12 Independent Inspectors General to Install Loyalists

In a shocking late-night purge, President Donald Trump dismissed the independent inspectors general of at least 12 federal agencies, signaling a dangerous consolidation of power aimed at replacing unbiased overseers with loyal allies. This unprecedented action undermines the very foundation of accountability within the government, as these inspectors play a crucial role in identifying and reporting fraud, waste, and abuse.

The inspectors were abruptly informed of their termination via emails from White House personnel, with the dismissals appearing to violate federal law requiring a 30-day notice to Congress prior to firing any Senate-confirmed inspector general. This blatant disregard for established regulations reflects Trump’s authoritarian inclinations, facilitating a shift towards widespread corruption.

Among the ousted inspectors were those overseeing significant departments such as Defense, State, and Veterans Affairs, raising concerns about the intent behind these dismissals. Trump’s prior history of targeting watchdogs, particularly those who investigated his administration, supports the notion that these firings are intended to eliminate any checks on his power and further his agenda without scrutiny.

Senator Elizabeth Warren has decried the actions as a “purge of independent watchdogs,” highlighting the grave implications for government transparency. By removing inspectors general who serve as critical counterweights to executive power, Trump is effectively dismantling the mechanisms designed to prevent misconduct and ensure accountability.

The fallout from this purge may leave remaining inspectors general in a precarious position, as they face tough decisions about the rigor of their oversight under a Trump-controlled government. This pattern of loyalty over integrity in leadership roles poses a dire threat to American democracy, with implications that could resonate for years to come.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/01/24/trump-fire-inspectors-general-federal-agencies/)

Trump’s Disturbing Push for Capital Punishment After Biden’s Commutation

Donald Trump has pledged to aggressively reinstate capital punishment following President Joe Biden’s recent commutation of sentences for 37 federal death row inmates. This move by Biden was seen as an effort to halt Trump’s push for executions, demonstrating a stark contrast in their approaches to justice and punishment. Trump’s declaration to pursue the death penalty highlights his alarming agenda, which prioritizes punitive measures over rehabilitation and justice reform.

In his criticism of Biden’s decision, Trump insinuated that Biden’s actions were a disservice to the victims’ families, further politicizing an already sensitive issue. Trump’s rhetoric around the death penalty has consistently sought to amplify fear and anger, positioning himself as a champion of harsh justice while ignoring the complexities of the legal system and the moral implications of state-sanctioned executions.

Experts have pointed out that Trump’s promises may largely be symbolic, as the practical implementation of his death penalty agenda faces significant legal and logistical hurdles under current federal law. Despite this, Trump has persistently used the death penalty as a political tool, attempting to rally support among his base by invoking violent crimes and sensational cases, while neglecting the broader conversation about criminal justice reform.

Public sentiment around the death penalty has shifted dramatically over the years, with support waning significantly. Trump’s reliance on capital punishment as a solution to crime reflects a regressive mindset that fails to address the root causes of criminal behavior. His approach is further compounded by the fact that many of the crimes he seeks to punish with death are often better addressed through comprehensive social programs and community support.

Ultimately, Trump’s fixation on the death penalty aligns with his broader authoritarian tendencies, reinforcing a punitive culture that undermines the principles of justice and humanity. This obsession is not only unethical but also indicative of a dangerous political agenda that disregards the sanctity of life and the possibility of redemption.

(h/t: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/trump-vows-pursue-executions-after-biden-commutes-federal-117096736)

Trump’s Lies and Racism Undermine Democracy

Donald Trump’s recent statements have further revealed his profound dishonesty and unethical behavior. In a series of interviews, Trump has perpetuated false claims about the 2020 election, insisting without evidence that it was stolen. This blatant disregard for the truth not only undermines democracy but also emboldens extremist factions within the Republican Party, who continue to spread misinformation and conspiracy theories.

Furthermore, Trump’s rhetoric has reached a new low, with inflammatory language that incites division and hatred among Americans. His comments about various ethnic groups and marginalized communities reflect a troubling trend of racism and bigotry that is increasingly normalized by his followers and Republican leaders.

In addition, Trump’s actions surrounding the January 6 Capitol insurrection have raised significant concerns about his accountability and integrity. His refusal to take responsibility for the violence that occurred, and his continued support for those involved, highlights a dangerous pattern of behavior that threatens the rule of law and the very fabric of American society.

Moreover, Trump’s economic policies have proven to be detrimental, favoring the wealthy while neglecting the needs of everyday Americans. His administration’s mismanagement of critical issues like healthcare and job creation has left many struggling, while he boasts about accomplishments that largely benefit his rich allies.

As the GOP rallies around Trump, the party’s shift towards authoritarianism and white supremacy becomes evident. Their willingness to overlook Trump’s unethical behavior for political gain reveals a deep-seated corruption that threatens the core values of democracy. It is imperative for the American public to recognize these alarming trends and hold Trump and his enablers accountable.

(h/t: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/08/politics/trump-plans-immigration-pardons-nbc-interview/index.html)

Trump’s Plan to Undermine Justice Department Highlights Authoritarian Ambitions

Donald Trump has unveiled a disturbing plan to retaliate against the legal system by firing the entire team of special counsel Jack Smith, who has been investigating him. This move, driven by Trump’s desire to shield himself from accountability, showcases his blatant disregard for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. Trump’s transition team is reportedly preparing to replace career attorneys with loyalists who will prioritize his personal interests over justice.

In an alarming escalation of authoritarian tactics, Trump aims to weaponize the Department of Justice against his perceived enemies. He intends to create investigative teams tasked with undermining the integrity of the 2020 election results, perpetuating his unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud. This strategy mirrors the playbook of authoritarian regimes, which often seek to manipulate state institutions for personal gain.

Trump’s attacks on the judiciary and law enforcement reflect a dangerous trend where political leaders undermine democratic institutions. His recent comments labeling judges as ‘evil’ expose his intent to intimidate those who oppose him. Such behavior not only threatens the core principles of democracy but also sets a precedent for future leaders to follow in his authoritarian footsteps.

This blatant attempt to exert control over the Justice Department is not just a personal vendetta; it’s a calculated effort to dismantle checks and balances that are fundamental to a functioning democracy. By fostering an environment of fear and retribution, Trump is encouraging a culture where political loyalty supersedes justice.

As Trump continues to attack the legal system, it is crucial for the American public to recognize these actions as part of a broader authoritarian strategy. The implications of his plans could have devastating effects on the integrity of democratic governance in the United States.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/11/22/trump-jack-smith-prosecutors-firing-justice-department-investigation/?utm_campaign=wp_main&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook)

Trump Regrets Leaving White House as He Peddles Lies About Voter Fraud

In a recent rally in Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump expressed regret over leaving the White House, stating he “shouldn’t have left” as he continues to push his baseless claims of widespread voter fraud. This rhetoric not only signals his persistent delusions about the 2020 election outcome but also hints at his unwillingness to accept potential defeat in the upcoming 2024 elections. His remarks come just days before the election, showcasing a campaign centered around grievance rather than policy.

Trump’s comments during the rally reflected a tone of resentment and self-pity as he lamented his departure from office. Significantly, he implied that the Democratic Party is “demonic,” illustrating his descent into extreme rhetoric that has characterized his political narrative. This kind of language not only alienates moderate voters but also stokes unnecessary hostility among his supporters.

Moreover, Trump’s continued insinuations that he will not recognize the election results unless he deems them “fair” raises alarms about the potential for further political unrest. His previous behavior, culminating in the January 6 Capitol riots, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in his rhetoric. His insistence on the presence of “hundreds of lawyers” at polling booths further exemplifies his unfounded paranoia surrounding electoral integrity.

Additionally, Trump’s sluggish and hoarse delivery during the rally indicates a lack of vigor that many observers may interpret as a fading influence. His obsession with personal grievances, rather than engaging in a constructive dialogue about the future, suggests that he is increasingly out of touch with the needs and concerns of American voters.

As he marches toward the 2024 election, Trump’s fixation on his past grievances over substantive policies highlights a troubling trend in his leadership style. With the specter of his divisive presidency still looming, voters must consider whether embracing such a figure is beneficial for the nation moving forward.

(h/t: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/03/us/politics/trump-pa-rally-election.html)

Trump says he’s received a target letter from special counsel Jack Smith’s Jan. 6 investigators – POLITICO

Skip to Main Content POLITICO Politico Logo Congress Pro E&E News Search Search WASHINGTON & POLITICS Congress White House Elections Legal Magazine Foreign Affairs 2024 ELECTIONS News GOP Candidate Tracker STATE POLITICS & POLICY California Florida New Jersey New York GLOBAL POLITICS & POLICY Brussels Canada United Kingdom POLICY NEWS Agriculture Cannabis Cybersecurity Defense Education Energy & Environment Finance & Tax Health Care Immigration Labor Sustainability Technology Trade Transportation NEWSLETTERS Playbook Playbook PM West Wing Playbook POLITICO Nightly POLITICO Weekend The Recast Huddle All Newsletters COLUMNISTS Alex Burns John Harris Jonathan Martin Michael Schaffer Jack Shafer Rich Lowry SERIES & MORE Breaking News Alerts Podcasts Video The Fifty Women Rule Matt Wuerker Cartoons Cartoon Carousel POLITICO Live Upcoming Events Previous Events Follow us Twitter Instagram Facebook My Account Log In Log Out legal Trump says he’s received a target letter from special counsel Jack Smith’s Jan. 6 investigators It’s the clearest sign yet that Trump may soon face his third criminal indictment — this time for his effort to subvert the 2020 election results. While the specific crimes that former President Donald Trump may be charged with are not clear, Smith’s team has been eyeing potential obstruction charges related to Trump’s actions in the days leading up to Jan. 6 and on that day itself. | Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images By Kyle Cheney 07/18/2023 09:32 AM EDT Updated: 07/18/2023 10:07 AM EDT Link Copied Donald Trump said Tuesday he expects to be indicted by special counsel Jack Smith’s Jan. 6 grand jury, citing a “target letter” he received from investigators on Sunday. Such a letter “almost always means an arrest and indictment,” Trump, who has already been criminally indicted twice in recent months, wrote on Truth Social. Trump said the letter, which is prosecutors’ typical precursor to a charging decision, offered him a chance to speak to the grand jury, which meets at the federal courthouse in Washington D.C., later this week. Targets of criminal investigations rarely speak to grand juries, and Trump has not exercised that right in the two other criminal cases in which he’s been charged. Legal Tracking the Trump criminal cases By POLITICO Staff The letter is the clearest sign yet that Smith is close to seeking an indictment for Trump’s role in the effort to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power on Jan. 6, 2021. While the specific crimes that Trump may be charged with are not clear, Smith’s team has been eyeing potential obstruction charges related to Trump’s actions in the days leading up to Jan. 6 and on that day itself — including pressuring his vice president, Mike Pence, to unilaterally block the certification of Joe Biden’s electoral victory. Investigators have also examined Trump’s consideration of a plan to seize voting machines from the states, his campaign of false claims that the election was stolen and his role in advancing a plan to assemble bogus slates of presidential electors to stoke a conflict ahead of Jan. 6. It’s unclear whether other figures associated with Trump’s effort are also in Smith’s sights. Investigators have interviewed dozens of prominent figures in Trump’s orbit, including Pence, in recent months. Attorneys John Eastman and Jeff Clark — two Trump associates considered key allies in his effort — had their phones seized last year. Trump revealed the target letter as he prepares to fight on another front to delay a criminal trial — also resulting from charges brought by Smith — related to his hoarding of national security secrets at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Trump’s attorneys will be in court in Fort Pierce, Fla. on Tuesday afternoon asking for the trial to be postponed until after the 2024 election, a prospect that Smith’s team has vehemently opposed. Trump is facing an extraordinary array of criminal charges and investigations. In addition to the two cases Smith has mounted, he’s facing charges in Manhattan for allegedly falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment scheme to a porn actress accusing him of an extramarital affair in 2016. And a district attorney based in Fulton County, Ga. has convened a grand jury that is expected to consider charging Trump and allies for efforts to subvert the 2020 election in Georgia. Many aspects of Smith’s Jan. 6 investigation were previously pursued by the House select committee on Jan. 6, which interviewed hundreds of figures associated with Trump’s scheme to seize a second term despite losing the election. The committee concluded that Trump was at the center of a complex, months-long effort to sow doubt about the election results and then orchestrate several attempts to reverse the outcome despite no evidence of significant fraud. The panel focused in particular on Trump’s effort to pressure state and local officials to appoint “alternative” slates of presidential electors in seven states won by Biden and then use those slates as a pretense to disrupt the Jan. 6 session of Congress — when the Constitution and federal laws require Congress to meet and certify the election. That session, also according to the Constitution and law, is managed by the vice president, who doubles as president of the Senate. When no state officials acquiesced, Trump turned to a cadre of lawyers, including Eastman, who promoted fringe alternatives to keep Trump’s prospects alive. Eastman famously pressured Pence and his top aides to violate provisions of the Electoral Count Act — the law that has governed the Jan. 6 session of Congress since 1887 — to advance the effort. Prosecutors and the select committee have also focused on Trump’s effort to assemble a massive crowd in Washington on Jan. 6, part of his plan to pressure Pence and GOP lawmakers to help reverse the results, and then to steer it toward the Capitol after Pence made clear he wouldn’t go along with the plan. Trump inflamed the crowd with his rhetoric and then stoked anger further when he attacked Pence — even as violence was underway at the Capitol — accusing him of lacking “courage.” Pence and lawmakers were forced to evacuate and delay the count of electoral votes for six hours while law enforcement and the National Guard worked to clear the mob. Filed under: Donald Trump, Donald Trump 2024, 2020 Presidential Candidates, 2020 Elections, Jack Smith, Trump Indictment POLITICO Link Copied About Us Advertising Breaking News Alerts Careers Credit Card Payments Digital Edition FAQ Feedback Headlines Photos POWERJobs Press Print Subscriptions Request A Correction Write For Us RSS Site Map Terms of Service Privacy Policy Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information and Opt Out of Targeted Advertising © 2023 POLITICO LLC

@[100044274887410:2048:Donald J. Trump] will be indicted again for his scheme to stop the peaceful transfer of power by planning on the DOJ to seize voting machines, assembling fake electors, his fake electors submitting fraudulent votes, pressuring state officials to ignore votes and hand him the election, and of course for sending an armed mob to the Capitol to stop his Vice President from participating in the certification of the election.

[https://www.politico.com/news/2023/07/18/trump-says-hes-received-a-target-letter-from-special-counsel-jack-smiths-jan-6-investigators-00106776]

Trump-appointed judge gives a ‘break’ to Jan. 6 rioter at sentencing

WASHINGTON — A federal judge nominated by former President Donald Trump gave a “break” Friday to a man who used bear spray during the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, saying he did not deserve the prison sentence requested by prosecutors. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden sentenced Tyler Bensch, who pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts in connection with the riot, to two years of probation and 60 days home incarceration. Prosecutors had requested nine months in federal prison. “You participated in a national embarrassment,” McFadden said before imposing the sentence. “You came ready for trouble.” But, he added, Bensch’s involvement was “pretty minor” when compared to others, while noting that his age was a mitigating factor. Bensch was 19 years old on Jan. 6, 2021. “I am giving you this break because of your age” at the time and a lack of criminal history, McFadden said. “This doesn’t need to define you or your life.” Bensch was arrested in August alongside members of the “B Squad” who were associated with the far-right Three Percent movement and “Guardians of Freedom,” as well as Jeremy Liggett, a far-right extremist who ran unsuccessfully for a congressional House seat last year. Bensch pleaded guilty to disorderly and disruptive conduct on restricted grounds along with theft of government property, admitting that he helped carry a stolen police shield from the grounds of the Capitol. In an interview with the FBI after his arrest, Bensch said B-Squad members took part in firearms training and hand-to-hand combat training ahead of the attack. In their sentencing memo, federal prosecutors said Bensch “helped push others towards the violence” and carried a chemical irritant spray, which prosecutors said in court was bear spray. Bensch deployed the spray “against another rioter” that day. Recommended Hunter BidenWho is Mark Scarsi, the judge assigned to Hunter Biden’s new tax charges case? A tearful Bensch did not speak during Friday’s sentencing hearing, but his court-appointed attorney Peter Cooper said the Florida man deeply regretted his actions. Bensch, Cooper said, “didn’t have the maturity to understand what he was getting into” and “carries great remorse for what he did that day.” Cooper went on to say that Bensch hopes to start a career in law enforcement, adding that it’s “not beyond the realm of possibility” that he could do so even with his misdemeanors. Bensch is currently working for a pool cleaning company, and the conditions of his sentence will allow him to leave his home for employment during his 60 days of home detention. Bensch’s case was the impetus for the departure of a self-proclaimed FBI whistleblower to take his complaints to Republican members of Congress. Steve Friend, a former FBI special agent who was based in Florida at the time of Bensch’s arrest, had been scheduled to transport Bensch but refused to do so. Friend, according to a book he authored, told other FBI employees that he didn’t think that rioters who assaulted officers on Jan. 6 should be charged. He later testified before the GOP-led House Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, a new panel that is focused on allegations that the government is unfairly targeting conservatives. Friend said he believed that federal authorities were bringing Jan. 6 defendants “to the gallows” because their cases were being tried in Washington, D.C. “They don’t stand a chance if they go to court,” Friend said. Rioters have been acquitted on many charges by both jurors and judges, with McFadden acquitting Jan. 6 defendant Matthew Martin a few months before Friend was supposed to help transport Bensch. McFadden on Friday also sentenced Bensch’s codefendant, Jonathan Rockholt, to five months in federal prison. Prosecutors had sought 13 months in prison. The Senate confirmed McFadden in 2017 in an 84-10 vote, with all opposition coming from Democrats. In a separate Jan. 6 case Friday, Barry Ramey was sentenced to five years in federal prison. Prosecutors had initially requested nine years in prison for the Proud Boy member who struck two officers with pepper spray, but U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich said that would create an unwarranted sentencing disparity. More than 1,000 people have been charged in connection with the Jan. 6 attack, and more than 300 have been sentenced to periods of incarceration. The longest sentence — 18 years — went to Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes, who was convicted of seditious conspiracy. Ryan J. Reilly Ryan J. Reilly is a justice reporter for NBC News.

A federal judge nominated by former President Donald Trump gave a “break” Friday to a man who used bear spray during the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, saying he did not deserve the prison sentence requested by prosecutors.

U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden sentenced Tyler Bensch, who pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts in connection with the riot, to two years of probation and 60 days home incarceration. Prosecutors had requested nine months in federal prison.

[https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna93170]

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