On Sunday’s episode of The Excerpt podcast, USA TODAY National Correspondent and Extremism Reporter Will Carless discusses the far-right anti-government militia called the Oath Keepers. Founded in 2009 by Stewart Rhodes, the group became synonymous with the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Carless shares his conversations with Stewart’s family, including his ex-wife Tasha Adams and their son Dakota, who fear for their safety if Stewart is released from prison.
Tasha and Dakota reveal the abusive and dysfunctional relationship they had with Stewart, describing him as a megalomaniac and a narcissist. They detail his violent tendencies and his messianic delusions that have led to his conviction for seditious conspiracy in relation to the Capitol attack. They express grave concerns about the possibility of Stewart being pardoned and seeking revenge on them.
Carless highlights the family’s fears and the potential consequences of Stewart’s release, including his alleged kill list and history of violent behavior. He also discusses the statements made by former President Donald Trump regarding potential pardons for those convicted in the Capitol attack, leaving open the possibility of pardoning non-violent offenders like Stewart Rhodes.
The episode sheds light on the personal side of the story, revealing the trauma and fear experienced by Stewart’s family members, who continue to live in fear of his potential actions if released from prison. It underscores the complexity of the situation and the ongoing repercussions of the events of January 6, 2021.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com