House Democrats have reacted with mixed emotions to former President Donald Trump’s historic indictment and expected arraignment, some celebrating the announcement while others approached it more cautiously.
Although all Democrats have agreed that no one should be above the law, the contrast in tone highlights Trump’s caustic relationship with political rivals and Democrats’ deep-seated anxiety that the former President’s indictment will only energize Trump’s base, making him an intimidating figure in the 2024 White House race.
But the divide between Democrats is also based on the central premise of the case that has resulted in Trump’s indictment.
Rather than Trump being indicted regarding his interference in the 2020 Presidential election or January 6 Insurrection, Trump has been indicted in a salacious case that centers on a $130,000 payment to cover an alleged affair.
One side of Democrats — primarily minority lawmakers and progressive Democrats in the squad — have lauded Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s case as a type of karmic justice against a man they believe is racist.
One member of the squad, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), exclaimed at Trump’s Indictment, tweeting, “Grand Jury votes to indict Trump!”
Her jubilation was shared with other House Democrats, including Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.), who claimed it was time to “ensure Trump is banned from running for any public office again.”
Democratic Rep. Summer Lee (PA.) simply tweeted “Good” in response to Trump’s indictment.
Other Democrats — a longer list — haven’t expressed jubilation at the news.
Democratic Rep. Jared Moskowitz (Fla.) tweeted that the announcement of Trump’s indictment was “not a moment to celebrate,” describing it as a “terrible moment for the country” while acknowledging “no one is above the law.”
Most Democrats expressed concern that Trump’s supporters could be enraged by the indictment and act on that rage.
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA.) agreed that “no one is above the law” while expressing hope that Trump would “peacefully respect the system, which grants him [the right to a trial to prove innocence].”
