Who Are the Oath Keepers
The Oath Keepers is an American far-right organization founded in 2009 by Stewart Rhodes, a former Army paratrooper. The group describes itself as a non-partisan association of current and former military, law enforcement, and first responders who pledge to defend the Constitution against what it considers unconstitutional orders.
Oath Keepers Beliefs and Activities
The organization has promoted opposition to federal gun regulations, mandatory vaccinations, and what it calls government overreach. Members have participated in protests, armed patrols, and training events, and the group has drawn scrutiny from federal investigators and courts.
Legal and Public Record
Several Oath Keepers members have been charged in connection with the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, and the organization has been described as a militia in official reports. For a factual overview of the group and its legal cases, see the Associated Press reference at Associated Press Oath Keepers coverage.
