Trump urged the current White House administration to release those who took part in the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. The remarks were reported by RIA News in connection with Trump’s rally in Iowa, where he framed the issue as a matter of clemency for the participants in that day’s events.
In his speech, Trump referred to the people he described as hostages rather than prisoners. He implored President Joe Biden to act, saying, “Release the hostages on January 6, Joe. Let them go, Joe. It’s very easy for you to do this, Joe.” The comments reflected his position on the fate of those involved, as reported at the rally.
On January 6, 2021, supporters of Trump gathered at the Capitol to protest the results of the presidential election, which had been won by Joe Biden. The protests escalated into clashes with law enforcement, resulting in injuries and fatalities among both protesters and police officers. Legal actions followed, with participants facing charges and some sentenced to significant prison terms after trials and judicial proceedings.
Trump has suggested that he would grant amnesty to the defendants if he were to win the presidency again in 2024. Biden, in contrast, has described those involved in the events as insurrectionists and has characterized the actions as a serious threat to democratic norms. The political debate over accountability and clemency for the January 6 participants has continued to shape public discourse and party positions.
Earlier discussions have also considered security and leadership implications for the Pentagon and other parts of the government if Trump were to return to the White House.