Trump blasts federal indictment as ‘baseless’ in speech to Republicans in Georgia

74

Trump Condemns ‘Unfounded’ Federal Indictment During Georgia Republican Convention

Ex-President Donald Trump, in his initial public remarks following the unveiling of his unprecedented federal indictment, harshly criticized the accusations as “ludicrous” and “unfounded.” He insinuated that the 37 felony charges were a ploy to attack his supporters, attempting to leverage his legal predicament into a political stronghold.

Addressing the Georgia Republican Convention, Trump framed his indictment by the Department of Justice as a deliberate scheme to sabotage his potential return to the presidency, as he endeavors to secure a second term.

“They’ve initiated one witch hunt after another in an attempt to derail our movement, to obstruct the American people’s will,” declared Trump. He later stated, “In reality, they’re not after me. They’re after you.”

This tactic is typical for Trump, who continues to lead the 2024 GOP nomination race despite his increasing legal troubles. His itinerary included addressing a Republican audience in North Carolina later on Saturday.

The indictment, unveiled on Friday, slapped him with 37 felony charges linked to the unlawful retention of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. The allegations include storing documents in multiple locations such as a ballroom and a bathroom at his resort.

The most severe charges have potential prison sentences of up to 20 years each, though first-time offenders rarely face the maximum sentence; the decision ultimately lies with the judge.

Trump projected a triumphant reception at the party conventions in Georgia and North Carolina. Jack Kingston, a former Georgia congressman who supported Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns, said, “Trump is a fighter, and convention attendees adore a fighter.”

About 100 supporters greeted Trump at the Columbus airfield, some holding up “Witch Hunt” signs. Jan Plemmons, 66, and Michael Sellers, 67, echoed Trump’s sentiment, calling the federal charges “absolutely ridiculous” and “criminal,” respectively.

The indictment could potentially impact the primary race, given its broad allegations and scope. Legal analysts had previously criticized an earlier New York criminal case as weak. The current indictment suggests that Trump knowingly possessed classified documents and flaunted them to visitors and aides. These allegations, based on evidence from lawyers, close aides, and other witnesses, could complicate Republicans’ defense against these charges.

Trump is scheduled to make his initial federal court appearance on Tuesday in Miami, alongside Walt Nauta, a personal aide also charged in the case. Additional legal challenges await Trump, including an indictment related to a hush money scheme and investigations in Washington and Atlanta that may lead to criminal charges.

Despite these trials, Trump’s popularity among Republican voters remains unscathed, as evidenced by his primary rivals’ cautious handling of the federal indictment.

At the North Carolina GOP event, Mike Pence condemned the “politicization” of the Justice Department, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis subtly compared Trump’s case to that of Hillary Clinton. Other Republicans, such as Kari Lake and Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, commented on the charges’ impact on Trump’s campaign and the Republican Party’s image.

This report includes contributions from Big Big News writers Eric Tucker in Washington; Thomas Beaumont in Marshalltown, Iowa; and Holly Ramer in Derry, New Hampshire. Colvin and Kinnard reported from Greensboro, North Carolina.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Donald Trump’s Federal Indictment

More about Donald Trump’s Federal Indictment