Trump’s Pardoning of Extremists Threatens American Jews

WASHINGTON – In response to Donald Trump pardoning January 6th insurrectionists, Halie Soifer, CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA), released the following statement:

“It’s unconscionable that Donald Trump pardoned and released from prison hundreds of dangerous insurrectionists, including Enrique Tarrio, the head of the Proud Boys. 

“Members of the Proud Boys espouse white supremacist and antisemitic ideology and are a threat to American Jews. Hundreds of those pardoned were convicted of assault against police officers and the media, demonstrating that these extremists are willing to use violence to achieve their goals. They belong behind bars, not free to continue dangerous acts of political vengeance and retribution. 

“On the same day that Trump’s top advisor Elon Musk appeared to twice give the ‘Heil Hitler’ salute, Trump made good on his promise to be a ‘dictator on day one.’ Today was Day One, and it was a good one for antisemites, white supremacists, and other dangerous right-wing extremists. It was a dark day for American Jews and all Americans who support the rule of law and democracy and oppose bigotry and hate.”

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