Donald Trump Embraces Woman Who Served Prison Sentence for Involvement in Capitol Riot

Former President Donald Trump embraced a woman who served a prison sentence for her involvement in the deadly Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol during a campaign stop in New Hampshire on Thursday.

The encounter took place at Red Arrow Diner, following a rally in Manchester, New Hampshire. Video shared by The Washington Post shows Trump approaching Micki Larson-Olson, who was sentenced to an 180-day jail term after being charged with a misdemeanor for obstructing law enforcement’s efforts to clear the U.S. Capitol grounds during the insurrection.

Trump can be heard calling Larson-Olson, a QAnon supporter who said she considers Trump the “real president,” “terrific.” A supporter for the former president can also be heard shouting “She’s a J6er.”

The appearance came the same day former Vice President Mike Pence testified before a federal grand jury as part of special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and keep himself in power.

The embrace between Trump and Larson-Olson has been met with criticism from some who believe it sends a message of support for the insurrection. However, Trump’s supporters have argued that the former president was merely showing his appreciation for a supporter.