Donald Trump Wants Liz Cheney Pardoned
After a questionable report from Georgia GOP Representative Barry Loudermilk hinted that former Representative Liz Cheney might face prosecution for her role in investigating the January 6 Capitol attack, Donald Trump took to Truth Social, claiming Cheney “could be in a lot of trouble.”
It might look like Trump is eager to see Cheney and others from the January 6 Committee prosecuted, but the reality might be far more calculated. Instead of seeking their downfall, Trump may have an entirely different objective: securing a pardon for Cheney.
At first glance, this seems contradictory, but it aligns perfectly with Trump’s characteristic Roy Cohn-style playbook. Beneath his public outrage and victimhood theatrics, Trump likely understands that dragging January 6 back into the spotlight is a dangerous move for him. It’s not about justice—it’s about survival.
A trial could turn Cheney into a symbol of defiance and paint Trump as the ultimate antagonist. Revisiting the events of January 6 would refocus attention on his role in the insurrection, disrupting the chaotic spectacle he and his behind-the-scenes ally, Elon Musk, seem intent on crafting in the months to come.
Let’s not overlook the fact that Trump not only spearheaded the January 6 rally but also fueled his supporters with relentless lies about the election beforehand.
He seemed unconcerned about them being armed, pressured Georgia’s Secretary of State, Brad Raffensperger, to “find 12,000 votes” for him, orchestrated a fake electors scheme to overturn the presidency, filed over 60 baseless lawsuits to halt the transfer of power, and refused to send aid to the Capitol while it was under siege by his followers.
Donald Trump could potentially pardon the actual Jan. 6 attackers, framing them as victims of a corrupt system. He might even cite President Joe Biden’s own use of pardons as justification for such a move.
This raises an important question: Should Biden consider pardoning figures like Liz Cheney or others who could be targeted by Trump or find themselves on Kash Patel’s rumored enemies list? The answer isn’t simple.
There’s no doubt these individuals face real danger. While I don’t believe Trump would want to revisit these issues—it risks implicating him further—it doesn’t mean he won’t. Political prosecutions are a possibility.
Even the act of forcing his opponents to defend themselves could inflict heavy financial burdens, drain their time, and cause immense stress. Trump has also shown he’s not above employing Nixonian strategies, such as surveillance or weaponizing the IRS against adversaries.
Trump’s promises of retribution add another layer. If he doesn’t follow through, especially if Biden pardons these individuals, it could tarnish his strongman image.
However, pardons come with complications. Accepting one might imply guilt, something figures like Cheney may wish to avoid. The stigma could undermine their efforts to stand firm against Trump’s narrative.
Ultimately, the wisest course for President Biden is to privately engage with those he believes are at risk. He should offer pardons, but respect their decision if they prefer to fight. Those who choose resistance over clemency will demonstrate immense courage and a commitment to truth that surpasses their persecutors.
Ross Rosenfeld is a political writer and educator based on Long Island. Follow Ross on Substack and Bluesky.
The opinions expressed are solely the author’s.