The Washington Post expresses increasing unease over the timeline of Donald Trump’s criminal trials in a recent column by associate editor Ruth Marcus. Marcus contends that the recent delays in Trump’s trial are “unconscionable,” asserting that they favor Trump’s strategy.
The absence of rigorous court oversight and timely actions could result in Trump’s trial coinciding with party conventions and the peak of the general election campaign. Marcus suggests that a postponement until after the November election aligns with Trump’s ultimate goal: winning, taking office, and subsequently dismissing the case.
Marcus emphasizes the potential disservice to voters if Trump is not tried before the election, as voters deserve to know if they are selecting a felon, particularly one involved in election interference. She points to polling data suggesting that a Trump conviction would be significant even for many Republican voters.
Donald Trump (Credits: Washington Post)
These comments follow the removal of Trump’s March trial date from the case docket due to delays in the appeals process, with no fresh trial date set by D.C. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan. Marcus urges the courts to establish an “expedited schedule” preventing Trump from reaching the November election without facing trial.
Marcus suggests that the appeals court, despite delays, has demonstrated awareness of the urgency, as evidenced by setting an expedited schedule for briefing and oral argument. She calls for the panel to set limits preventing Trump from exploiting typical appeal deadlines.
Marcus cites Protect Democracy’s analysis, indicating that Trump would typically have 30 days for review by the full appeals court and 90 days thereafter to go to the high court. She highlights the need for the courts to thwart potential gamesmanship and expedite justice.
The forceful rhetoric reflects The Washington Post’s deep concerns about a Trump victory in November, with respected pollsters indicating a high possibility of his unprecedented return to the White House.
The paper faces challenges, including layoffs, declining circulation, and a reported annual loss of $100 million. Speculation suggests owner Jeff Bezos may be considering selling the company, raising questions about its future appeal.
