Although in a few instances they rallied in support of Trump ahead of the 2024 election, overall, it was fair. paleespecially compared to 2020. This prompted speculation that the gang was on its last leg.
Then, on Monday, as Trump was sworn into office, more than 100 Proud Boys marched through the streets of Washington, D.C., led by their South Florida chapter.
It was a stunning spectacle – one meant to send a clear message: “We are back.”
Since January 6, 2021, D.C. has been viewed by the far right as a no-transfer zone for Trump supporters of all stripes. But on Monday the Proud Boys chanted “whose streets – whose streets.” They received a hero’s welcome from other Trump supporters in the crowd, as we saw video Recorded by freelance journalist Ford Fisher.
On Tuesday, as bureaucratic snafus delayed the release of about a dozen Jan. 6 detainees from the capital’s prison, protesters gathered outside. Among them were at least four proud boys. Even though the three of them had covered their faces, they were walking around with what seemed to be zero worries about the stigma from others. Oath Keeper founder Stuart Rhodes, whose 18-year prison sentence for conspiracy malpractice was commuted by Trump, also appeared outside prison—he walked onto the federal prison in Maryland the night before.
One of the Proud Boys present spoke at the shivering rally outside the prison, identifying himself as “Harry Fox.” (This was the same name the other Proud Boys gave to reporters on opening day.)
“Donald Trump is back, baby. He’s back, and he’s stronger than ever,” he said on the microphone. “I’m so proud of what American citizens did that day,” he added, referring to Jan. 6, “to finally stand up after decades.” From abuse and persecution by an authoritarian regime.”
He ended his speech with the Proud Boys’ slogan: “I am a Western chauvinist, and I will not apologize for creating the modern world.” The crowd cheered.
Tarrio, in his phone call to Jones on Tuesday, made clear that he views the role of the Proud Boys as no different than he did four years ago — he sees them as soldiers and the muscle of the Republican Party. “I think the future of the club will be what it has always been,” Tarrio said. “A group of guys who love America, walk around and drink beer, and protect Trump supporters from assault… We will defend ourselves and Trump supporters from assault for their political views.”
He suggested he feels vindicated by Trump’s electoral victory and the decision to pardon nearly all participants in the January 6 riot. “We went through hell, and I’ll tell you: it was worth it,” Tarrio told Jones. “What we stood for and what he stood for for these guys is what we were fighting for, is what we saw yesterday on the opening stage… I can’t tell you it was easy. But I will tell you it was worth it.”
