A letter filed by the lawyer of Jan. 6 defendant Russell Taylor revealed that a Republican former House member and three current members of Congress from Utah invited Taylor to attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Taylor organized a group to travel to Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, 2021, in response to Trump’s tweet about the day being “wild.” He pleaded guilty to obstruction of an official proceeding and cooperated with the government. Taylor led a mob at the Capitol carrying weapons and tactical gear. His lawyer filed a motion to allow him to travel to Washington with his family for the inauguration.
The letter inviting Taylor came from former Rep. Chris Stewart, who described Taylor as a caring father and patriot. Stewart did not specify which three current members of the Utah delegation joined him in extending the invitation. Taylor testified against his co-conspirators, leading to their prison sentences. His lawyer emphasized Taylor’s remorse and the importance of accepting responsibility for his actions.
In a separate development, former President Trump has praised Jan. 6 rioters, referring to them as “patriots” and suggesting he may consider pardoning them. More than 1,570 people have been charged for crimes related to the Capitol attack, with over 1,100 convictions and more than 600 rioters sentenced to incarceration. The judicial principles of truth, justice, and law and order were highlighted by the judge overseeing Jan. 6 related cases to emphasize the seriousness of the events that took place.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com