S.Res.42 - Condemning the pardons for individuals who were found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police Officers. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 42 expresses the Senate's disapproval of any pardons granted to individuals convicted of assaulting Capitol Police officers. The resolution was introduced in the Senate on January 28, 2025, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. It is sponsored by Mrs. Murray and a large group of senators.
The resolution is a symbolic gesture expressing the Senate's opinion on a specific issue. It does not have the force of law.
The resolution reflects a concern for the safety and well-being of law enforcement officers and the integrity of the justice system.
Expected Effects
If passed, the resolution would formally express the Senate's disapproval of pardons for individuals convicted of assaulting Capitol Police officers. This could put political pressure on the executive branch regarding future pardon decisions.
However, the resolution itself would not legally prevent any pardons from being issued. The actual impact is primarily symbolic, reflecting the Senate's stance on the issue.
It could influence public opinion and potentially affect the political consequences of granting such pardons.
Potential Benefits
- Reinforces the importance of holding individuals accountable for assaulting law enforcement officers.
- Sends a message of support for Capitol Police officers and law enforcement in general.
- Upholds the principle that those who commit crimes should face justice.
- Could deter future assaults on law enforcement by signaling that such actions will not be tolerated.
- Affirms the Senate's commitment to the rule of law.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could be seen as an overreach of legislative power into the executive branch's pardon authority.
- May further polarize political discourse on issues related to the January 6th Capitol attack and its aftermath.
- Could be interpreted as a symbolic gesture without practical impact, potentially undermining the Senate's credibility.
- May be viewed as pre-judging future pardon requests without considering individual circumstances.
- Could be seen as infringing upon the President's constitutional power to grant pardons.
Constitutional Alignment
The US Constitution grants the President the power to grant pardons (Article II, Section 2, Clause 1). This resolution does not directly violate that power, as it only expresses disapproval and does not legally block any pardons.
However, the resolution could be argued to impinge on the separation of powers by attempting to influence the executive branch's decision-making process regarding pardons. The Senate is expressing its opinion on a matter within the President's purview.
While not unconstitutional on its face, the resolution raises questions about the appropriate balance between the legislative and executive branches.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).