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DOJ Vacates January 6 Convictions Amid Free Speech Dispute

4/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Justice moved to vacate seditious conspiracy convictions of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys tied to January 6 response.
Arizona Senator Mark Kelly challenged Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's 'sedition artist' label for opposing Trump.
A judge blocked Hegseth's disciplinary actions against Kelly, citing First Amendment violations.
Hegseth plans to appeal, arguing retirees' speech can be censored if disobedient.
Kelly's appeal is set for May 7.

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Story summary

The Department of Justice moved to vacate seditious conspiracy convictions of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys tied to January 6 response.
Arizona Senator Mark Kelly challenged Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's 'sedition artist' label for opposing Trump.
A judge blocked Hegseth's disciplinary actions against Kelly, citing First Amendment violations.
Hegseth plans to appeal, arguing retirees' speech can be censored if disobedient.
Kelly's appeal is set for May 7.