In a surprising financial move, the Trump administration has agreed to pay nearly $5 million to the family of Ashli Babbitt, who was fatally shot by a police officer during the January 6 Capitol protest.
See the tweet below!
This settlement, settled earlier this month, marks a poignant chapter in the ongoing discourse around the tragic events of that day.
Babbitt’s family originally pursued a $30 million wrongful death lawsuit, asserting that the Capitol Police officer had acted negligently when he shot Ashli Babbitt.
Legal representatives claim that the officer failed to de-escalate the situation appropriately and did not issue warnings before firing.
Approximately one-third of the settlement will be allocated to cover legal fees.
This controversial settlement was first reported by The Washington Post.
Outgoing U.S. Capitol Police Chief, Tom Manger, expressed deep disappointment, stating such settlements send a negative message to law enforcement officials nationwide.
President Trump consistently portrayed Ashli Babbitt as a martyr of the MAGA cause.
He has been vocal about his view that her death was an injustice.
At a previous rally, Trump referred to Babbitt as a hero and a “big MAGA fan,” although he wasn’t initially aware of the lawsuit itself.
It’s notable that despite the settlement decision, no wrongdoing has been admitted by the Department of Justice.
“The actions of the officer in this case potentially saved Members and staff from serious injury and possible death from a large crowd of rioters who forced their way into the U.S. Capitol and to the House Chamber where Members and staff were steps away,” the U.S. Capitol Police stated, defending the actions of the officer during the chaos.
Lieutenant Michael Byrd, the officer involved, was cleared of any criminal wrongdoing by both a Department of Justice and a separate Capitol Police investigation.
Their findings determined his actions were lawful and consistent with what is expected from officers during unprecedented threats to Congress members and staff.
“Her memory will live on in our hearts for all time,” President Trump eloquently remarked, further solidifying Babbitt’s status as a symbol of patriotism within his base.
The Justice Department’s stance remains unchanged despite the significant financial settlement.
This underscores the complex nature of public narratives surrounding the January 6 events. The decision presents a continued debate over law enforcement actions and the government’s message to both officers and the public.
The settlement’s announcement reignites conversations about accountability and protection roles during riots and protests.
While certain citizens see this compensation as overdue justice for a wrongful death, others stand by the officer’s split-second decision, pointing to the chaos and potential danger facing Congressional members.
Ultimately, the nearly $5 million payout marks an unusual chapter in the legal aftermath of January 6.
🚨BREAKING: The Trump administration has agreed to a $5 million settlement with Ashli Babbitt’s family after she was fatally shot by police during the January 6th protest. pic.twitter.com/keumBE1B7O
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) May 19, 2025
