Blaze Journalist Charged With 4 Misdemeanors Over Jan. 6 Capitol Riot

Steve Baker, a conservative journalist with The Blaze (Right bias), was arrested on Friday in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

Details: Baker entered the Capitol during the riot and has extensively reported on the incident and ensuing criminal trials. He is charged with four misdemeanors: Knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; Disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; Disorderly conduct in a capitol building; and Parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a capitol building.

Key Quotes: Baker claimed the charges are a response to his coverage of the incident and the rioters’ trials, stating, “If you don't say the right thing at the right time, and comport to the right narrative, that's what they're going to do is they're going to come after us and that's exactly what's happened.” Glenn Beck, founder of Blaze Media, stated that Baker’s arrest “demonstrates that those in positions of power are quick to react when confronted with narratives that deviate even slightly from their carefully scripted versions of events.”

How the Media Covered It: Right-rated outlets are covering Baker’s arrest more prominently and frequently. Coverage from The Blaze stated that Baker “has been searching for the truth about Jan. 6, 2021.” The Associated Press (Lean Left bias) included more details on Baker’s involvement during and after the riot, including a quote from him stating that he approved of the riot “100%.”