House Speaker Mike Johnson faced backlash for claiming GOP support for Capitol Police amid pardons of Jan. 6 rioters who attacked officers.

House Speaker Mike Johnson drew criticism on October 15, 2025, for claiming Republicans have consistently supported Capitol Police, a statement challenged by Democrats and law enforcement advocates amid backlash over former President Trump’s pardons of around 1,500 January 6 rioters, including those convicted of assaulting officers. The remarks came during a press conference addressing the ongoing government shutdown, which left Capitol Police receiving only half their pay without overtime. Critics highlighted the contradiction between Johnson’s assertion and the pardons, with many calling the comments inconsistent and damaging to accountability efforts.