This NPR Up First podcast delves into the lasting effects of the January 6th, 2021 Capitol riot, with a particular focus on the surprising number of participants with military backgrounds. An NPR investigation uncovered that about 200 of the 1,500 people arrested had military experience—almost double the rate found in the general population. The podcast also examines the military's response, which includes a Pentagon initiative aimed at identifying and tackling extremism within its ranks. This effort has faced notable political pushback and delays. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the ongoing difficulties in confronting political extremism in the military, especially with the return of a former president who has strong connections to military personnel. The case of Sergeant Joshua Bates, an active-duty Marine involved in the riot, exemplifies the challenges and inconsistencies surrounding military accountability.
