An independent probe by Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz found no evidence that federal agents incited the January 6 Capitol attack, countering claims by far-right figures that the FBI was involved. The report confirmed the presence of 26 FBI informants in Washington, D.C., but none were instructed to join the assault or encourage illegal activity. The FBI was criticized for not properly canvassing field offices for intelligence prior to the attack, but the report noted the bureau took significant steps in preparation for January 6.
Michigan State Representative Matt Maddock falsely claimed that buses at Detroit Metro were carrying "illegal invaders," when in fact they were transporting the Gonzaga men’s basketball team for an NCAA tournament game. Despite evidence proving him wrong, Maddock continued to push his baseless conspiracy theory. The Wayne County Airport Authority and Gonzaga University confirmed the truth, but Maddock persisted in his false narrative.
Former Vice President Mike Pence has publicly denounced a conspiracy theory suggesting that the FBI orchestrated the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. His comments come in response to new polling data revealing how GOP views on the events of January 6 are shaped by such unfounded claims. Pence's stance represents a clear dismissal of the conspiracy and underscores the ongoing political divisions regarding the interpretation of the Capitol riot.
Jimmy Kimmel publicly criticized NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers for insinuating that Kimmel might be on a rumored list of associates of the late Jeffrey Epstein. Rodgers made the remark on the "Pat McAfee Show" while discussing a conspiracy theory. Kimmel, denying any connection to Epstein, warned Rodgers of potential legal action due to the serious nature of the accusation and the threat it poses to his family's safety.
A member of the Proud Boys on trial for seditious conspiracy, Dominic Pezzola, used his testimony to advance a conspiracy theory about fellow Jan. 6 participant Ray Epps, claiming he was a "suspected government operative." Far-right conspirators have alleged that Epps was working with the federal government and sought to provoke violence during the 2021 attack on the Capitol. Pezzola also claimed there was no plan to storm the Capitol ahead of Jan. 6 and depicted himself as an average Joe who had just stumbled into situations and made some poor decisions.
