The hush-money trial in New York, anticipated to be a media spectacle favoring Donald Trump, has taken a turn against him. Rather than portraying him as a heroic figure, Trump has been seen dozing off in court, grumbling at potential jurors, and receiving reprimands from the judge.
Instead of appearing as a potential leader, he resembles a disgruntled defendant. The trial, centered on allegations of covering up payments to influence the 2016 election, is expected to worsen as it may involve testimonies from Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, adding tabloid drama but not the favorable attention Trump once enjoyed.
This trial might serve as a remedy for “Trump amnesia,” where voters forget reasons for their previous opposition to him. Despite Trump’s attempts to downplay his past actions, such as the events surrounding the Capitol invasion, many voters have seemingly forgotten significant details. Trump’s departure from office over three years ago and a focus on current economic concerns have contributed to this memory lapse, resulting in a softened view of his presidency, dubbed “Trump nostalgia.”
Trump (Credits: The New York Times)
However, the trial and its potential implications could shift the focus back to Trump’s misdeeds. Facing multiple criminal prosecutions, including attempts to overturn the 2020 election and the hush-money case, Trump’s support might erode if he is convicted. Polls suggest that a conviction could lead a significant portion of his supporters to abandon him, potentially altering the electoral landscape.
Despite skepticism from some quarters about the trial’s impact on voter behavior, polls indicate that the hush-money charges are seen as serious crimes by a majority of respondents, including a notable portion of Republicans. While the trial alone might not sway the election, a felony conviction, particularly if coupled with convictions in other ongoing trials, could sway enough votes to make a difference in a closely contested election.
Ultimately, while the New York trial may not be directly decisive in the election outcome, its proceedings are unlikely to benefit Trump, given the negative publicity and potential legal ramifications. Trump’s frustration with the trial’s proceedings reflects the realization that it isn’t yielding him any measurable advantage, despite his attempts to discredit the legal process.
