Former President Donald J. Trump’s recent conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records has sparked a wave of backlash from him and his loyalists in the conservative news media and Congress. Trump immediately rejected the verdict, assailing the judge and the criminal justice system, while his supporters echoed his baseless claims of a politically motivated sham trial.
The display of unity among Trump and his followers highlights the extent of his hold over his base. They have singled out the judge presiding over the case, denigrated the judicial system, and distorted the circumstances of the charges against him and his subsequent conviction.
In response to some of their claims, experts have fact-checked the statements made by Trump and his supporters. For example, Trump’s assertion that the judge was highly conflicted due to his daughter’s work with prominent Democrats was deemed exaggerated, as judicial ethics experts found no grounds for recusal.
Similarly, Trump’s claim that the case was orchestrated by President Biden and his administration lacks evidence, as the investigation began before Biden took office. Additionally, Trump’s assertion that he faced a potential 187-year jail sentence was debunked, as the actual sentencing will be determined by the judge on July 11 and could result in a much shorter term or even probation.
Furthermore, claims made by Trump’s allies in Congress and the media, such as the lack of a fair jury and the introduction of new crimes during the trial, were also fact-checked and found to be false or misleading.
The controversy surrounding Trump’s conviction continues to unfold, with his defiance and the unwavering support of his base creating a divisive and contentious atmosphere in the political landscape. As the legal proceedings progress, the truth behind the claims and counterclaims will ultimately be revealed.
