A former Republican House member and three current members of Congress from Utah invited Jan. 6 defendant Russell Taylor to President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Taylor organized a group of “fighters” to travel to Washington, D.C., in response to Trump’s tweet. He pleaded guilty to obstruction of an official proceeding and cooperated with the government against the Three Percenters militia group. Taylor led a mob at the Capitol while carrying weapons. His lawyer filed a motion asking for permission to attend the inauguration with his family.
Former Rep. Chris Stewart extended the invitation, stating that Taylor is a caring father who loves the country. Stewart, who resigned citing his wife’s illness, defended Trump in Congress. Taylor expressed intentions to disrupt tyranny and storm the Capitol. He testified against his co-conspirators in trials and was praised by the judge for handling his case correctly. Trump has praised Jan. 6 rioters, calling them patriots. He has suggested he may pardon them and believes members of Congress on the Jan. 6 committee should go to jail. Over 1,570 people have been charged for crimes related to the Jan. 6 attack, with over 600 sentenced to incarceration.
Taylor’s request to travel to the inauguration comes after the judge emphasized the importance of truth and justice in Jan. 6 cases. Taylor continues to maintain his belief in election improprieties while admitting he went too far in his actions on Jan. 6.
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