House Democrats reportedly pressured the U.S. Capitol Police to provide exceptional benefits to Lt. Michael Byrd, the officer who fatally shot Ashli Babbitt during the Jan. 6 protests, according to internal emails reviewed by Just the News. The report reveals a pattern of preferential treatment that critics say highlights political favoritism.
Byrd received a retention bonus of $37,000, security upgrades worth nearly $22,000, and support from a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $164,000. These benefits far exceeded what other officers received, including those injured during the Capitol protests.
Aides to then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) reportedly pressured the Capitol Police to address Byrd’s grievances, leading to the extraordinary measures. Despite the assistance, Byrd expressed dissatisfaction, arguing he deserved more.
Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), chair of the House Administration Oversight Subcommittee, criticized the unequal treatment. “The bonuses given to frontline officers were a fraction of what Byrd received. This was political favoritism, plain and simple,” he said.
Byrd was promoted to captain in 2023 despite a disciplinary record that raised questions about whether he should have been on the force at all. Critics argue his promotion and the financial support he received are part of a broader effort by Democrats to protect him following Babbitt’s death.
The incident highlights a stark contrast in how cases of police force are handled. While Democrats often condemn officers in shootings involving unarmed Black individuals, they supported Byrd after he fatally shot Babbitt, a White Trump supporter. The apparent double standard has fueled accusations of hypocrisy.
The revelations have sparked calls for accountability and a closer examination of how political influence shaped the Capitol Police’s actions in this case.
