Klete Keller, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, has received a pardon from former President Trump for his involvement in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots. In a recent interview, Keller expressed his surprise and relief, stating that it felt unreal and that he's grateful for the opportunity to move forward. He acknowledged his regret for the actions he took that day and his love for his country.
Keller had pleaded guilty to a felony charge related to the events of January 6th and was sentenced to house arrest and probation. He admitted to attempting to obstruct Congress' certification of President Biden's election victory, pushing past officers in the Capitol Rotunda, and shouting profanities about political figures. He also confessed to discarding his U.S. Olympic team jacket and destroying his phone.
Keller, a three-time Olympian with five medals, was among the approximately 1,500 individuals pardoned by Trump. While he never anticipated a pardon, he expressed gratitude for the former president's decision, describing it as a restoration and a second chance. He stated that he's learned valuable lessons from the experience and intends to apply them moving forward.
Keller, now 42, competed in three Olympic Games, achieving notable success including winning gold alongside Michael Phelps in the 4x200-meter freestyle relay at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
