Last week, the Supreme Court rejected special counsel Jack Smith’s request to fast-track Donald Trump’s appeal directly to the High Court for a swift resolution.
Columnist Ron Brownstein suggests that the Supreme Court is well aware of Trump’s tactics and now faces a crucial decision — whether to play along or stand against it.
Political analyst Julian Zelizer asserts that Trump’s strategy is not necessarily to win but to prolong the process. The longer he delays, the better chance he has to pressure the attorney general to halt prosecutions after the 2024 election.
Brownstein emphasizes that the timing of the case is paramount. Trump aims to keep it unresolved until after the election, as some voters prioritize a conviction over an indictment. The Supreme Court, including Chief Justice John Roberts, understands Trump’s game and must decide whether to be complicit in this delay tactic.
While Roberts seeks a unanimous decision to preserve the integrity of the presidency’s power, Brownstein acknowledges the challenge, referencing the 2000 Bush v. Gore decision that initiated public distrust in the High Court.
Highlighting the impact on public opinion, Brownstein notes that Trump’s legal troubles influence public sentiment, challenging the notion that there are no consequences for his actions. With Joe Biden’s approval rating under 40 percent, the political landscape remains complex, suggesting resistance and costs for Trump’s behavior.
