President Trump was reportedly warned by top aides in recent days against the possibility of issuing pardons to GOP lawmakers who participated in his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.
The New York Times reported Tuesday that Trump has considered the move but was convinced against it by his remaining advisers, including White House counsel Pat Cipollone.
The news came as speculation swirled about what the president’s last full day in office would look like and whether he would move to issue more pardons.
A person briefed on the discussion between Trump and the White House counsel, which reportedly took place Saturday, said Cipollone warned Trump against granting clemency to any lawmakers who may be linked to the Capitol breach on Jan. 6.
Aides reportedly warned Trump that the move could be dangerous given the stated intentions by at least some Democrats to pursue investigations into the president once he leaves office.
Dozens of people are already facing charges for their roles in the violence. Five died amid the chaos on Capitol Hill, including one Capitol Police officer who suffered injuries while responding to the rioters.
The president was also reportedly turned away from the prospect of issuing preemptive pardons for himself and members of his close family, whom he fears could end up being targets of investigations as well, the Times reported.
In addition to potential investigations after Wednesday, Trump also faces a historic second impeachment trial in the Senate after the House voted to impeach him last week in response to the Jan. 6 violence.