Ernst Criticizes Trump's 'Hostages' Label for Jan. 6 Prisoners

Senator contrasts Capitol rioters with real hostages from Oct. 7 Hamas attack, acknowledges potential for future presidential pardons

Sen. Joni Ernst criticizes former President Donald Trump for referring to those imprisoned in connection with the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol as 'hostages', saying there's 'no comparison' between their situation and the plight of actual hostages held by terrorist groups.
Ernst points to the ongoing hostage situation following the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, where Americans and others have been held in tunnels, tortured, and denied medication.
Trump's remarks have also drawn criticism from the families of those being held hostage by Hamas.
Despite her criticism, Ernst stated that if Trump were to be re-elected president, it would be his prerogative to pardon those convicted for participating in the Jan. 6 riot.
Most of the alleged Jan. 6 rioters have been released pending trial, with those remaining in prison having pleaded guilty to crimes or been found guilty by juries.