President Donald Trump is renewing attention on the killing of Ashli Babbitt and pledging to take action on behalf of the individuals who have faced years of persecution following the Jan. 6 protests. During a recent interview, Trump confirmed that discussions about financial relief for those unjustly imprisoned are underway.
Babbitt, a 36-year-old veteran, was unarmed when she was shot inside the Capitol by Lt. Michael Byrd. Video footage shows her interacting with officers and attempting to keep order in the minutes before the fatal shooting.
BREAKING: Trump announced an investigation into the cop who m*rdered Ashli Babbitt.
He needs to face a jury!pic.twitter.com/vardjFU5kE
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) March 26, 2025
Trump referred to her as a hero and said the actions taken against her by Byrd were not justified. He expressed concern about Byrd’s background — which includes prior incidents like leaving a loaded weapon in a public restroom and abandoning his assigned post.
Trump has already issued more than 1,500 pardons to individuals tied to Jan. 6 and says the mistreatment they received under the Biden administration must be addressed. Many of those prosecuted lost their jobs, homes and reputations — often without any proof of violent conduct.
The president pointed out that many people imprisoned had not even entered the Capitol building and were charged for minor offenses exaggerated by a politicized Justice Department.
Ashli Babbitt’s family has brought a $30 million legal case against the federal government. Trump said he will now be reviewing the lawsuit and has voiced admiration for Babbitt’s mother, who has been vocal in demanding answers.
Capitol Police provided Byrd with significant post-shooting benefits, including retention bonuses and taxpayer-funded accommodations. His record, however, shows a pattern of negligence and dishonesty.
Republican leaders have continued to call for accountability in the case, arguing that real justice must include punishment for those who abused their authority and harmed innocent Americans.
