Jake Lang runs for Florida Senate seat post-pardon

Jake Lang, a pardoned defendant from the January 6 Capitol riot, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat previously held by Marco Rubio in Florida. Lang did not go to trial for his alleged involvement in the insurrection due to delays in his legal proceedings and was pardoned by former President Donald Trump along with many others. In a post on X, Lang proclaimed his intention to run, stating, "The story of the January 6 Hostages isn’t over." He emphasized a belief that those associated with January 6 are destined for leadership roles. Lang has not shown regret for his actions during the riot and often describes himself as a political prisoner. Video evidence from the day shows Lang engaging in violent confrontations with police while making aggressive statements about the Capitol. Some Republican figures in Florida question his viability as a candidate, suggesting he may not be taken seriously. One party official noted that unusual candidates often enter races but rarely succeed. After Rubio left for a position in the Trump administration, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody was appointed to his Senate seat. Lang would likely need to challenge Moody in a primary if he hopes to secure the nomination.