Pardoned January 6 Defendant Announces Candidacy for Florida Political Office
Florida Man Convicted in January 6 Riot Launches Campaign for County Office
Adam Johnson, a Florida man known for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot, is running for an at-large seat on the Manatee County Commission as a Republican. This announcement coincided with the fifth anniversary of the riot, during which he famously posed with then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s lectern.
Background of the Incident
Johnson’s notoriety stems from his actions during the Capitol riot, where he was photographed smiling and waving while carrying Pelosi’s lectern. Following his conviction, he received a pardon from former President Donald Trump. During a recent interview with WWSB-TV, Johnson stated that his choice to announce his candidacy on January 6 was “not a coincidence,” suggesting it would generate significant buzz around his campaign. Notably, his campaign logo features an outline of the viral image of him with the lectern.
A Trend in Political Campaigning
Johnson is not the only individual connected to the January 6 event seeking public office. Several others, including three Republicans who ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2024, have also entered the political arena following similar backgrounds. This trend indicates a growing acceptance within the Republican Party of candidates who were previously convicted of crimes related to the Capitol riot, especially after receiving pardons from Trump.
Legal Consequences and Reflection
During the Capitol incident, Johnson placed the lectern in the Rotunda, posed for photographs, and simulated giving a speech. In a plea agreement, he admitted to entering and remaining in a restricted building, a misdemeanor he has since minimized, likening it to “jaywalking.” Despite his past, Johnson maintains that he was exercising his First Amendment rights. He has expressed regret primarily due to the consequences of his actions, including a prison sentence of 75 days followed by one year of supervised release, along with a $5,000 fine and 200 hours of community service.
Current Political Landscape
With the incumbent not seeking re-election, Johnson is one of five Republicans who have declared candidacies for the upcoming primary on August 18 in this strongly Republican county. His platforms include addressing high property taxes and criticizing local government overdevelopment and wastefulness. In March 2025, Johnson filed a lawsuit against Manatee County, claiming the county’s refusal to recover attorney fees in a dropped lawsuit was unjust. However, the county has labeled Johnson’s claims as “completely meritless.”
Public Reaction and Civic Engagement
Johnson acknowledges that his past convictions will subject him to greater scrutiny than other candidates in the race. He suggests this heightened attention may benefit local constituents by fostering awareness of politicians’ actions and motivations. “This is a positive and a good takeaway for every single citizen,” he remarked, indicating a push for increased civic engagement among voters in the county.
