Florida Governor Ron DeSantis criticized the January 6 protesters, many of whom are currently incarcerated for trespassing, during a CNN town hall in Iowa on Thursday.
DeSantis showed little sympathy for their situation, stating that they did not demonstrate patriotism while protesting the certification of the election.
When asked by a voter if the insurrectionists displayed patriotism, DeSantis responded, "No, of course not. That was not a good day for the country." He went on to suggest that the media and the left have politicized the events of January 6, but emphasized that it was a dark day for the nation. According to DeSantis, true patriotism is demonstrated when individuals prioritize service above self.
These remarks quickly gained traction on social media, with many noting that DeSantis may be alienating a significant portion of his party.
As of December, approximately 1,240 individuals have been arrested in connection with the Capitol breach. However, according to The New York Times, this number may only represent half of the total indictments that will eventually be filed.
Regarding punishment, over 450 people have been sentenced to jail or prison, with the harshest sentence thus far being a 22-year term imposed on Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the Proud Boys. The report also highlights that several individuals, who were not affiliated with extremist groups but engaged in violent clashes with law enforcement outside the Capitol, have received sentences of ten years or more.
It is worth noting that Tarrio was not present in Washington, D.C., on the day of the protest. Additionally, many individuals did not enter the Capitol building and were merely in town for other permitted rallies scheduled for that day.
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