Donald Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election outcome are detailed in a comprehensive report from the special counsel who conducted a two-year investigation. While much of the information was previously disclosed during a congressional inquiry in 2022, the 140-page report offers new insights into the evidence gathered and the legal reasoning behind the investigation.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House, he swiftly rejected the report’s findings, asserting his innocence and labeling the special counsel as “deranged.” Here are the five key takeaways from the report.
1. Trump allegedly encouraged violence
The report delves into the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, when Trump’s supporters stormed the building in an attempt to obstruct the certification of Biden’s victory. It states, “Mr. Trump’s words inspired his supporters to commit acts of physical violence.” Although Trump urged his followers to “peacefully and patriotically make [their] voices heard”, he repeatedly used the term “fight” throughout his speech.
Trump has indicated his intention to pardon many of those charged in connection with the riot, which he has reframed as a “day of love.” His supporters argue that he did not directly incite the crowd, relying on his call for peaceful expression.
2. No charges for incitement
The report clarifies that although prosecutors considered charging Trump with “incitement to insurrection,” they ultimately did not. The speech delivered on the Ellipse may have fulfilled the Supreme Court’s threshold for incitement, particularly when taken alongside Trump’s false claims about election fraud. However, the lack of direct evidence necessitated caution, and prosecutors found other viable charges.
3. Rioters cited Trump’s influence
The report reveals that several individuals convicted for their role in the Capitol attack attributed their actions to Trump’s guidance. Some, like Alex Harkrider, claimed they were merely “responding to the entreaties” of Trump. David Mehaffi echoed similar sentiments in court, stating that he trusted the president but regretted that decision. However, the report does not consider that such statements may be motivated by the defendants’ desire to mitigate their culpability.
4. Trump pressured Pence to overturn results
Trump’s ongoing pressure campaign against Vice President Mike Pence is detailed in the report, which chronicles multiple attempts by Trump to persuade Pence to reject the election results during his ceremonial role. Trump’s insistence included threats that people would “hate his guts” if he did not comply. In a final call before his speech, Trump pressured Pence, who responded by stating he couldn’t fulfill Trump’s demands. Shortly thereafter, Trump’s supporters were heard shouting threats against Pence as they invaded the Capitol.
5. Law enforcement trauma documented
The report highlights the severe toll the Capitol riot took on law enforcement, with over 140 officers assaulted. It notes that 123 defendants faced charges related to the use of weapons against police. The report emphasizes the long-term psychological impact, stating that many officers suffered “unseen injuries” such as depression and trauma, with some experiencing feelings of “survivor’s guilt” and “shell shock.”
