Americast The Jan 6th Capitol riots five years on… Why America is still divided
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Jan 16, 2026 Five years after the Capitol riots, the divisions in American politics remain stark. A new Republican-led panel aims to reshape the narrative surrounding January 6, countering previous investigations. Social media's role in polarizing opinions is significant, as public sentiment among Republicans shifts. Language around the rioters also evolves, impacting perceptions. The debate over whether this messaging is sincere or strategic continues, along with concerns over how politicization affects shared memories of that day.
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Public Opinion Is Shifting Among Republicans
- Public opinion on January 6 remains negative overall, but Republican attitudes have softened over time.
- A CBS YouGov poll shows Republican strong disapproval dropped from over 50% in 2021 to about 30% by late 2024.
Social Media Mirrors And Amplifies Divisions
- Online narratives about January 6 reflect the political split in real life and amplify competing realities.
- Marianna Spring notes social media groups helped build momentum toward the riot and now host divergent takes and conspiracy theories.
Supporters Call Rioters 'J6 Hostages'
- Marianna Spring describes meeting Trump supporters who called prosecuted rioters 'J6 hostages' and supported pardons.
- She found many of their views were driven by disinformation about the 2020 election.