Donald Trump has once again ignited debate by addressing the January 6 Capitol riots and defending his controversial decision to pardon several individuals involved. In a recent interview, he downplayed the severity of clashes with police, referring to them as “minor incidents.” However, security footage reveals violent confrontations where protesters used improvised weapons, such as lampposts and hockey sticks, against officers.

Speaking with Hannity, Trump accused the media of exaggerating the events. “Some of those situations were real, but they were very small incidents. The media blows them out of proportion,” he stated. He then pivoted to criticize rising crime rates in cities like Philadelphia and Los Angeles, claiming authorities fail to address the most dangerous offenders. “We had 1,500 people injured. That’s a lot of people,” he added.

Trump’s decision to pardon over 250 individuals, some with serious convictions, has drawn sharp criticism. While figures like Mitch McConnell publicly condemned the move, most Republicans either supported Trump or avoided direct confrontation. Meanwhile, major law enforcement organizations expressed disappointment, labeling the pardons as a blow to justice and institutional morale.

The former president also criticized Joe Biden, accusing him of receiving poor advice and granting unnecessary clemencies to figures like General Mark Milley and Dr. Anthony Fauci. “Biden got terrible advice. Someone told him to pardon everyone except himself,” Trump remarked, visibly frustrated.

During the interview, Trump defended the song Justice for All, recorded from prison by January 6 defendants, which topped Billboard charts. “People got the message. They wanted to support those individuals,” he proudly declared.

He also lashed out at FEMA, accusing the agency of failing to respond adequately to recent disasters. Trump suggested that states should take responsibility for handling emergencies without federal aid. “FEMA hasn’t done its job in the last four years. When I was in charge, we managed hurricanes in Florida and tornadoes in Alabama effectively. Now, everything’s out of control,” he emphasized.

Additionally, Trump proposed cutting federal funding to sanctuary cities that shield undocumented immigrants and dismissed concerns over TikTok, calling them overblown. “Is it really that important that China is spying on kids watching crazy videos?” he quipped.

Finally, Trump announced plans to visit North Carolina to assess damage from Hurricane Helene and then travel to Los Angeles to oversee wildfire response efforts, reaffirming his commitment to disaster-stricken communities.