> At a Glance
> – Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio is organizing a Jan. 6 commemoration march in Washington
> – The event begins at the Ellipse just before noon on Tuesday
> – Tarrio, recently pardoned by President Trump, says the march honors Ashli Babbitt and others who died
> – Why it matters: The demonstration revives tensions over the Capitol attack and Trump’s dismissal of related criminal cases
Five years after the assault on the U.S. Capitol, a new protest is planned for the very same date. Organizers say they want to spotlight people they call “patriots,” including a woman shot by police during the riot.
March Details
Enrique Tarrio announced the gathering on X, urging supporters to “march for Ashli.” A flyer shows the route starts at the Ellipse, the same park where President Trump addressed supporters before the 2021 breach.
Tarrio’s post highlights:
- A demand for “justice” for Ashli Babbitt, an Air Force veteran killed inside the building
- Recognition of others who died in connection with that day
- An open invitation: “I ask those that are able to attend please do so”
Criminal Case Closed
While marchers prepare to rally, the federal case against Trump is effectively over. Jack Smith, the former special counsel, told House lawmakers the evidence was “very strong” and “never political.”
Smith noted that many planned witnesses actually voted for Trump. He argued the Capitol violence would not have happened “without him,” citing more than 100 officers injured.
Memorial Delay
A tribute to police who defended the building remains in limbo. Congress approved a commemorative plaque in 2022, yet it still has not been installed on the Capitol’s west front. Two officers have sued to force its placement, while the Justice Department seeks dismissal of that suit.
Key Takeaways
- Demonstration planned for Jan. 6, 2026, starting at the Ellipse
- Organizer Enrique Tarrio received a presidential pardon
- Jack Smith defends his prosecution record in newly released testimony
- Capitol police memorial, authorized years ago, remains unfilled
The city is bracing for potential clashes as the anniversary march approaches, underscoring how the events of 2021 continue to reverberate through politics and public safety.
