In a campaign stop in Clinton, Iowa, former President Donald Trump demanded the release of his supporters who have been convicted or detained for crimes related to the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6. Trump referred to his jailed supporters as "hostages," stating that they have already suffered enough. The remarks were made on Saturday, commemorating the third anniversary of the Capitol riot.

Over 1,200 individuals have been charged in connection with the incident, with more than 900 pleading guilty or being convicted. Trump, who is campaigning in Iowa ahead of the state's January 15 primary, continues to maintain a strong lead over his rivals, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

During his speech, Trump also claimed that he was indicted because he challenged the "crooked election." These statements come as political pundits and commentators marked the third anniversary of the Capitol riot. On a Saturday show, MSNBC host Jonathan Capehart became emotional while interviewing a police officer who had served at the Capitol on that fateful day.

As part of his campaign efforts in Iowa, Trump is set to attend a pair of faith events on Monday, where he will be joined by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and former Diamond State Gov. Mike Huckabee.

The demand for the release of his convicted supporters adds another layer of controversy to Trump's ongoing political activities. With the primary just days away, the former president's campaign activities in Iowa continue to garner attention and maintain his prominent position in the race.

As the anniversary of the Capitol riot passes, the nation reflects on the events of that day, each person with their own perspective on the implications and consequences of the attempted insurrection.