DC Rally for January 6 defendants draws small crowds

• Law enforcement in Washington was on high alert for a planned rally in support of the defendants on January 6.
• The rally drew smaller crowds than expected, despite Trump voicing support for the defendants.
• Police, many in riot gear, outnumbered spectators, according to AP.

Heightened fears surrounding the “Justice for J6” rally held in Washington DC on Saturday were largely unwarranted, as the event did not draw large crowds.

The event took place in support of the defendants accused of “non-violent offenses” during the January 6 insurgency on Capitol Hill, according to a declaration issued by the organizing group of the event. More than 600 people have been arrested in connection with the Capitol Riot and face charges ranging from illegal or violent entry to assaulting a police officer.

The rally sparked security concerns, prompting police to place fences around the Capitol earlier this week. An official from the Department of Homeland Security said he expected around 700 people to show up at the rally.

Nathan Howard / Associated Press

Former President Donald Trump appeared to express his solidarity with onlookers in a statement released Thursday.

“Our hearts and minds are with those so unfairly persecuted in connection with the January 6 protest over the rigged presidential election. On top of everything else, it has conclusively proven that we are a two-man justice system. In the end, however, JUSTICE WILL PREVAIL! ” he said.

But according to various reports, turnout was lower than expected. Capitol Police noted only about 400 to 450 people attended the rally. Photos and videos showed a massive police presence and extensive media.

—The New York Times (@nytimes) September 18, 2021

The Associated Press reported that the police on the scene, many in riot gear, easily outnumbered rally fans. Capitol Police noted they arrested at least four people, including a man with a handgun.

Speakers at the rally included election candidates. AP reported that false allegations had been shared about the integrity of the 2020 election and the violence on January 6.

One of the speakers was the girlfriend of Capitol Riot advocate Jonathan Mellis, who was filmed attacking police officers with a baton on Jan.6, according to AP.

Matt Braynard, event organizer and former Trump campaign staffer, called the rally a success on Twitter and thanked the police who were there.

“Good energy, good message, everyone come back safe. Mission accomplished,” he wrote.

No GOP lawmakers attended the event, including those who spoke out in favor of the January 6 defendants.