A White House video celebrating President Donald Trump’s support for law enforcement was widely criticized, with social media users accusing him of “betraying” Capitol Police by pardoning January 6th insurrectionists.
Earlier this week, Trump signed a proclamation designating May 15, 2025, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the preceding week as Police Week. On Friday, the White House released a 2-minute video promoting the move, which featured a series of law enforcement officers thanking Trump.
“It’s night and day…the changes that have already been seen in the past several months,” chuckled a man. “The support that we did not have and now we do have.”
“It’s wonderful to know that we have a president who supports law enforcement and law and order in general,” a Tucson Police Department officer said.
“It truly makes a difference when you have a President who supports you,” another officer exclaimed.
“Many politicians say they back the blue—then betray them,” the White House wrote in the video’s caption. “Never President Trump.”
The sentiment on social media was less “kumbaya,” and more “you have some f—ing nerve.”
“Trump incited the violence that injured and killed police officers on January 6th,” the same statement read. “And then pardoned the rioters, calling them patriots.”
“Are you freaking kidding me?” one asked, while another said, “What a joke.”
“Trump supports the blue unless they work in the Capitol building,” an X user wrote.
“Trump pardoned the January 6th insurrectionists who attacked the brave men and women of the Capitol Police,” an additional statement read. “Trump has betrayed our officers. “Over and over again.”
On the first day of his second term, Trump pardoned more than 1,500 people in connection with the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, including those accused of assaulting or resisting law enforcement.
Five officers died after defending the Capitol during the brutal attack; one suffered a stroke, and four committed suicide in the months that followed.
Former Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Fanone, who was brutally assaulted during the Capitol attack, responded to the broad pardons. “I have been betrayed by my country, and I have been betrayed by those who supported Donald Trump,” according to him.
The largest police union in the United States echoed his condemnation. “Crimes against law enforcement are more than just attacks on individuals or public safety; they also undermine society and the rule of law.
Allowing those convicted of these crimes to be released early undermines accountability and undervalues the sacrifices made by brave law enforcement officers and their families, according to a statement from the Fraternal Order of Police.
Trump, who is wrapping up a business-focused tour of the Middle East, has yet to respond to the criticism.
