In a recent interview, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) expressed his surprise at the level of support that both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are receiving in the polls for the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Despite Trump’s recent indictment, he and Biden are currently tied in polling data, both garnering 43% of support.
Raskin, known for his sharp wit and colorful language, remarked that he wishes Abraham Lincoln was alive to witness the state of the modern Republican Party. According to Raskin, the party has transformed from a pro-freedom, anti-slavery, pro-immigration party into a “cult of authoritarian personality.” He believes that even Republicans who run against Trump are afraid to challenge his betrayals of the Constitution.
Speaking about Trump’s actions after the 2020 election and leading up to the Capitol protest, Raskin stated that Trump knew what he was doing. He argued that Trump was well aware that his claims of electoral fraud and corruption had been repeatedly rejected by the courts. Raskin found it necessary to remind everyone that just because one believes they are owed something does not give them the right to break the law.
Trump is currently facing four counts in his latest indictment, including conspiracy to defraud the United States and obstruction of an official proceeding. Despite pleading not guilty, Trump has described the indictment as “persecution of a political opponent.” Interestingly, a recent poll showed that a majority of Republican voters, 69% in total, believe that Trump is the strongest nominee to take on Biden in the 2024 election. This speaks to Trump’s enduring popularity within the party.
Editorial Opinion: This news article highlights the concerning state of American politics today. It is disheartening to see that both Biden and Trump have such strong support, despite Trump’s ongoing legal issues. The fact that a majority of Republican voters see him as the strongest nominee for 2024 is a testament to the loyalty and dedication of his supporters. However, it also raises questions about the future of the Republican Party and whether they will continue to prioritize Trump’s agenda over the principles they once stood for.