"Shifting Republican Support for Trump Amid Lingering Jan. 6 Controversy"

The January 6 Capitol attack remains a divisive issue as former President Donald Trump gears up for another presidential run. While Republican voters have become more forgiving or supportive of Trump's actions surrounding the event, the broader American electorate, including independents, still views the riot negatively. Polls indicate that Trump's involvement in the January 6 events and his election denial pose significant risks to his candidacy, as the majority of Americans believe President Joe Biden was legitimately elected and support the legal actions against the rioters. The issue of election legitimacy and the January 6 attack played a role in the 2022 midterms, where many election-denying Republican candidates were defeated. Trump has suggested he may pardon those charged in connection with the riot, a stance that is unpopular with the general public.