During a wide-ranging interview, President Donald Trump reaffirmed his commitment to those targeted by the Biden administration after the Jan. 6 protests and criticized the man responsible for killing Ashli Babbitt. Trump said that not only is he considering pardons but that compensation for the victims of political persecution is actively being discussed.
Babbitt, a 36-year-old Air Force veteran and strong Trump supporter, was shot inside the Capitol by Lt. Michael Byrd. She was unarmed and, according to several accounts, trying to prevent violence rather than encourage it. Despite that, Byrd faced no charges and was later promoted.
BREAKING: Trump announced an investigation into the cop who m*rdered Ashli Babbitt.
He needs to face a jury!pic.twitter.com/vardjFU5kE
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) March 26, 2025
The officer had previously been disciplined for leaving a loaded firearm in a public space and abandoning his duty post. Internal affairs recommended termination but he kept his job and was even rewarded with retention bonuses and a secure facility.
Trump described the shooting as an unthinkable act and said Babbitt’s name deserves to be cleared. He also said he had only recently heard of the wrongful death lawsuit filed by her family but intended to look into it further.
On his first day back in office, Trump pardoned over 1,500 people connected to the events of that day. Many of them had never even entered the Capitol but were still jailed and smeared by federal prosecutors and legacy media.
Now, Trump says it is time to consider helping these Americans rebuild. Some of his top allies including incoming federal prosecutor Ed Martin have also called for restitution to those unfairly charged and imprisoned.
Babbitt’s mother has continued to demand answers and expressed gratitude for Trump’s unwavering support. Trump called Babbitt an innocent victim and praised her for her patriotism and courage.
Byrd’s promotion and generous benefits have sparked backlash from both lawmakers and the public. Trump’s Justice Department is reportedly reviewing how such actions were allowed to occur under previous leadership.
