Washington, D.C. – A judge appointed by former President Ronald Reagan has expressed concern about the attempts by Republicans to distort the events of the January 6 Capitol attack. U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth, who presided over a recent resentencing hearing, criticized prominent political figures for their questionable remarks regarding the convicted individuals involved in the insurrection. Lamberth warned that such rhetoric could pose a further risk to the country, describing it as “preposterous.” While he did not mention specific politicians by name, he referenced radical rhetoric from several Republican members of Congress, including Andrew Clyde, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Elise Stefanik.
During the hearing, Judge Lamberth sentenced James Little, who pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of demonstrating inside the Capitol. Although Little had already served his initial sentence of 60 days in prison and three years on probation, Lamberth was struck by his lack of remorse and refusal to acknowledge wrongdoing. As a result, he imposed an additional 60 days in prison. However, it was Lamberth’s broader comments on Republican rhetoric surrounding the pro-Trump riot that drew attention.
Lamberth expressed astonishment at the “meritless justifications of criminal activity” being presented as mainstream by certain Republicans. He voiced concerns about the distortion of facts and outright falsehoods that have permeated the public consciousness since the events of January 6. The judge emphasized the importance of truth and warned of the potential danger caused by destructive and misguided rhetoric.
Other federal judges have also made impactful statements regarding the Capitol attack. U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson, in a separate case, highlighted the dangers of attempting to force one’s will on the American people after they have already spoken through the election process. Judge Amit Mehta, in sentencing a rioter, attributed the defendant’s conduct to the lies and falsehoods spread about the 2020 election. U.S. District Judge Reggie Walton expressed concern for the state of democracy, criticizing former President Donald Trump for prioritizing power over the well-being of the nation.
These statements from members of the federal judiciary shed light on the truth surrounding the events of January 6. While Judge Lamberth’s remarks are significant, they are part of a larger chorus of voices within the judiciary determined to uphold the integrity of democratic institutions.