Former Vice President Mike Pence has broken his silence regarding the recent guilty verdict handed down to former President Donald Trump, echoing sentiments of many Republicans by condemning the conviction as politically motivated. In an interview with Fox News, Pence expressed his dismay, calling the conviction an “outrage and disservice to the nation.”
Pence emphasized that while no one is above the law, he believes the court should not be used as a tool against political opponents. He voiced concern that the conviction, based on charges of falsifying business records, could erode public confidence in the justice system.
The charges against Trump stemmed from alleged non-disclosure payments made during the 2016 election campaign. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg brought forward 34 counts of falsifying business records, arguing that these actions were part of a larger conspiracy to influence the election unlawfully.
Critics, including legal experts like Alan Dershowitz, have questioned the soundness of these charges and accused Bragg of pursuing a politically motivated prosecution. Pence echoed these concerns, stating that the conviction further polarizes an already divided nation.
Pence also expressed confidence in the appeals process, indicating that he believes the conviction will be overturned. Trump and his legal team have vowed to appeal the verdict, with some experts suggesting that an expedited appeal could reach the U.S. Supreme Court before the November elections.
The outcome of these legal proceedings could have significant implications for Trump, including potential penalties such as jail time, probation, or fines. As the appeals process unfolds, the political and legal landscapes remain tense, with divisions deepening over the handling of this high-profile case.