Elise Stefanik Continues to Support Trump's Stance on January 6 Prisoners After Three Years
GOP Rep Elise Stefanik echoes Trump, referring to the January 6 prisoners as hostages in relation to their roles in the US Capitol attack
Republican Representative Elise Stefanik echoed Donald Trump by referring to those convicted for their involvement in the January 6, 2021, US Capitol attack as "hostages." During an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press," Stefanik expressed concerns about the treatment of those involved and the weaponization of the federal government against not only Trump but also against conservatives. She emphasized Congress's oversight role regarding the treatment of prisoners.
The comments from the House Republican conference chairwoman come a day after the three-year anniversary of the January 6, 2021 riot, during which hundreds of individuals stormed the US Capitol to keep Trump in the White House. Over 1,200 Americans have been criminally charged for their alleged actions during the riot, and more than 890 have been found guilty of federal crimes, with over half receiving prison sentences, according to the Justice Department.
In court, a few rioters have claimed to be victims of politically motivated prosecution due to their support for Trump. However, federal judges, including those appointed by Trump, have rejected these arguments.
Republican ex-Rep. Liz Cheney condemned Stefanik for labeling those incarcerated for their involvement in January 6 as "hostages," denouncing the term as "disgraceful."
"That word she used is precisely the word that Donald Trump uses. And that's why she's using it. And it's outrageous, and it's disgusting," Cheney expressed on CBS "Face the Nation." "These are individuals who participated in violence against law enforcement in the attack on the Capitol, and ... it's disgraceful for Donald Trump to be saying what he's saying."
After the Capitol attack, Stefanik delivered a speech on the House floor denouncing political violence. However, she also contested the certification of Pennsylvania's 2020 election votes, citing concerns about election integrity and unconstitutional overreach. Stefanik emphasized her support for President Trump and reaffirmed her stance on the House floor speech.
There is no proof of voter fraud or unconstitutional actions in the 2020 election in Pennsylvania or any other state. When asked if she would certify the 2024 election regardless of the winner, Stefanik did not commit, stating that it will depend on whether the election is legal and valid. She also mentioned that Democrats are trying to prevent Trump from appearing on ballots using the 14th Amendments "insurrectionist ban".
Stefanik declined to provide a direct response when asked if she would consider being Trump's running mate if he were to ask her, but stated that she would be honored to collaborate with a potential future Trump administration.
"Without a doubt, I would be honored to contribute in any role within a Trump administration. I am proud to have been the first member of Congress to endorse his reelection, and I am a staunch supporter of President Trump. I am confident that he will emerge victorious in November," Stefanik commented.
CNNs Daniel Dale, Hannah Rabinowitz and Holmes Lybrand contributed to this report.
