American news outlets respond to Trump's judgement - Triumph of justice or gloomy day for America?
The verdict has left the United States feeling frozen, stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific. In a stunning turn of events, a New York criminal court found Donald Trump (77) guilty on all 34 charges related to hush money payments to adult film star, Stormy Daniels.
In disbelief, reactions differed based on individuals' political allegiances. The left-leaning crowd declared, "Trump is unfit to reside in the White House." Meanwhile, the right-leaning crowd lamented, "A gloomy day for America."
National media outlets weighed in on the momentous verdict.
• New York Times: "A silver lining to this dirty case is the undeniable evidence that the law applies to everyone, even former presidents. The fact that twelve Americans can judge someone who once held the prestigious position of president indicates the strength of our democratic values."
• Wall Street Journal: "This is a volatile time for our country. Will the judge sentence Donald Trump to prison? Will voters choose to re-elect him due to outrage over this manufactured case? Will the Republicans retaliate? The nation could come to regret this dramatic turn of events. This verdict sets a precedent for employing legal cases, no matter how questionable, to discredit political opponents, including former presidents."
• New York Post: "The verdict should be overturned upon appeal. Until then, President Biden's camp may label Trump a convicted criminal. State Attorney Alvin Bragg and Judge Juan Merchan have arguably tarnished the justice system for purely political motives."
• CNN: "This is a pivotal moment for not only the hundreds of millions of Americans but also the world. It is the first time in American history where a jury believes the person who previously held the nation's top office has committed a crime."
• Washington Post: "Trump has repeatedly told lies to serve his personal and financial interests. Given this precedent, how can anyone argue that his crimes are unbelievable?"
"The former president is now the first ex-president to be convicted. However, it's hard to fathom that a decade ago, a convicted president would even be a possibility."
• USA Today: "The verdict will claim headlines, but its impact on the 2024 presidential election is questionable. Those who hate Trump will loathe him even more, and those who adore him will likely support him even more."
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