Federal prosecutors are pushing back against requests from at least two individuals convicted of charges related to the January 6th Capitol riot to attend Donald Trump's presidential inauguration. Both individuals are currently under court orders restricting their presence in Washington, D.C.

Cindy Young, found guilty of four misdemeanors, and Russell Taylor, who pleaded guilty to a felony conspiracy charge, have separately petitioned the courts for permission to be in the capital city for the inauguration. Government attorneys have filed objections, arguing that their presence poses a risk, particularly to law enforcement personnel.

Prosecutors specifically cited Young's calls for retaliation against those involved in January 6th prosecutions as evidence of the danger she presents. They emphasized her failure to acknowledge the gravity of her actions. In Taylor's case, the Justice Department underscored the seriousness of his crimes and the inappropriateness of allowing him to return to the location where those crimes occurred. Taylor's request was supported by members of Utah's congressional delegation who had invited him to the event.

Despite the government's objections in these two cases, another January 6th defendant, Eric Peterson, received court approval to attend the inauguration. Peterson, convicted of a misdemeanor, is awaiting sentencing. Notably, court records indicate no opposition from the Justice Department to Peterson's request.

The question of potential pardons for January 6th defendants by Trump remains open. While Trump has at times indicated that pardons would be considered for those who remained peaceful, he has also suggested the possibility of blanket pardons. He has consistently stated that any pardons would be issued swiftly after his inauguration.

The Justice Department declined to comment on the matter.