Pence criticized Trump's ongoing use of the term “hostages” to describe those still facing federal charges related to the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, stating on “Face the Nation” that Trump’s use of the word is “just unacceptable.”
When speaking with anchor Margaret Brennan, Pence stated, “I think it’s very unfortunate, at a time that there are American hostages being held in Gaza, that the president or any other leaders would refer to people that are moving through our justice system as ‘hostages.'”
In January, President Joe Biden claimed that up to six Americans are still among those held hostage in Gaza. Pence highlighted the severity of the Jan. 6 attack, asserting,“I was there on Jan. 6. I have no doubt in my mind, Margaret, that some people were caught up in the moment and … entered the Capitol, and they’re certainly entitled to due process of law for any nonviolent activities that day.”
He continued, “But the assaults on police officers ultimately, in an environment that claimed lives, is something that I think was tragic that day, and I’ll never diminish it.”
On that day, the insurrectionists were also particularly upset with Pence, chanting “hang Mike Pence” outside the Capitol and constructing a makeshift gallows. Trump has previously suggested that the crowd may have been justified in chanting 'hang Mike Pence' as the former vice president refused to prevent the 2020 election from being certified.
Pence has decided not to endorse Trump for president, stating, “after a lot of prayer and reflection, I’ve come to the conclusion that I won’t be endorsing Donald Trump this year.” He added, “I mean, look, I’m very proud of the record of our administration, Margaret. It was a record that left America more prosperous, and more secure, and our liberties and the sanctity of life stronger than ever before in my lifetime.” to When questioned further by Brennan, Pence explained the reasons behind his decision not to endorse Trump, including Trump’s request for Pence to violate the Constitution and overturn the results of the 2020 election, as well as Pence's dedication to the sanctity of life and American leadership in the world. Pence will not endorse Trump for president, reiterating this to Brennan and explaining, “a commitment to sanctity of life” and to “American leadership in the world” are part of the reason why.
Pence stood by his decision not to endorse Trump for president, citing personal convictions and principles as contributing factors. Trump has previously mentioned that the crowd might have been right to chant “hang Mike Pence” as the former vice president refused to prevent the 2020 election from being certified.
On Friday, Pence announced that he will not endorse Trump for president, stating, “I said last week that, you know, after a lot of prayer and reflection, I’ve come to the conclusion that I won’t be endorsing Donald Trump this year.”
Pence expressed his pride in the accomplishments of his administration and explained that it left America in a better state than ever before in terms of prosperity, security, and liberties.
Mike Pence's “Face the Nation” interview can be watched above.
