Riots’ Pardoned Figures Oppose Proposed Tax Changes

Individuals pardoned by President Trump for their involvement in the Jan. 6 riots are expressing strong discontent with Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani’s plan to impose taxes on New York City’s wealthier neighborhoods, and they’re taking legal action to oppose it.

Edward Lang, who filed a lawsuit in federal court on November 3, felt an overwhelming sense of nausea upon discovering that Mamdani intended to “shift the tax burden from overtaxed suburban homeowners to more affluent areas.” He found the rhetoric particularly troubling, as it emphasizes “richer, whiter areas.”

Lang, 30, recalled his reaction to a New York Post headline that read “Price is White,” feeling an intense sense of disgust. “It struck me that someone had to speak up, so I did,” he shared, arguing that the 14th Amendment ensures equal protection under the law, implying that white individuals seem to be treated as second-class citizens now.

Acting as his own attorney, Lang criticized Mamdani’s use of “overt racial references,” suggesting they imply that race and neighborhood demographics should influence tax responsibilities.

Lang was arrested shortly after the Capitol riot, facing assault charges against law enforcement and spending almost four years in prison. He claimed to have been held in solitary confinement for over 900 days before receiving a pardon in January.

A former resident of Narrowsburg, New York, he has raised over $1 million for legal and related causes tied to January 6 during his lawsuit. Currently living in West Palm Beach and running for a Senate seat in Florida, he believes his business interests in the northern part of the state empower him to challenge the incoming mayor.

“I really want Mr. Mamdani to be removed from his position. I’m curious about the details of this tax proposal,” Lang remarked, emphasizing the importance of transparency.

Mamdani has not responded to requests for comment.