The conviction of former president and current Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump on 34 felony charges of falsifying company records is a watershed event in both legal and political history. A strong message on Trump’s unsuitability for government is sent by this conviction, which is based on hush-money payments designed to quiet allegations of a sexual encounter that might have undermined his 2016 campaign.
The fact that Trump was found guilty by a 12-person jury drawn at random from New York City highlights that the rule of law applies to everyone, including past presidents. This decision brings to light an important matter: Donald Trump has no business becoming president.
No one is immune to the rule of law; this is the fundamental principle of a democratic society. Trump has complete contempt for legal and ethical norms, since he was convicted of manipulating company records to conceal a controversy that hurt his political career. It is unacceptable conduct for any public figure, much less the president. To keep our democratic processes honest, we need leaders who will not break the law for their own benefit but will instead respect and obey it.
Furthermore, Trump’s character defect is shown by his readiness to participate in dishonest tactics to gain an electoral advantage. Honesty, openness, and responsibility should be the hallmarks of a president. But there is a pattern of manipulation and lying in Trump’s acts. This belief is only one instance of his tendency to dismantle democratic ideals and practices; there are many more.
Sending a convicted criminal to the White House would have far-reaching consequences. It is impossible to disregard moral and ethical concerns, even if the Constitution does not exclude a convicted person from seeking or holding the office of president. If the American people choose Trump as their president, it will send a message throughout the globe that they are willing to overlook criminal activity and corruption at the highest echelons of government. The country’s image as an exemplar of democracy and lawlessness would take a major hit because of this.
Moreover, this conviction is only the beginning of Trump’s legal troubles. Mishandling confidential materials and conspiracy to reverse the 2020 election are two of the other major claims against him. His repeated displays of anarchy and contempt for democratic institutions are borne up by these accusations, which further establish his eligibility for power.
Voters should think long and hard about the consequences of choosing a president with a criminal record as the next election draws near. Now that the jury has rendered their verdict, it is the responsibility of the people to elect a leader who will preserve democracy and the rule of law as the nation’s chief executive. Trump has often shown his lack of interest. That being the case, he has no business serving as America’s president.
