Trump Expected to Be Arraigned Today
On April 4th, 2023, former President Donald Trump appeared in court and was formally charged with 34 felony counts related to falsification of business records. This marks a watershed moment in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, with Trump being the first sitting or former president to face criminal charges.
Trump, who is also the frontrunner for the Republican Party's presidential nominating contest, has denied any wrongdoing and is expected to plead not guilty. His lawyers have opposed videography, photography, and radio coverage, citing concerns about the "circus-like atmosphere" around the case.
Despite these concerns, demonstrations for and against Trump are expected, with tight security measures in place. Trump's supporters, particularly white blue-collar workers and conservative Christians, have lauded him, while he has riled liberals and some global allies.
The case has also impacted the Republican Party's presidential nominating contest, with Trump's lead widening over rivals in a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted after news broke that he would face criminal charges. Trump's lead stands at 48% among Republicans, up from 44% in a March 14-20 poll. Second-place Florida Governor Ron Desantis fell from 30% to around 19%.
The District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, who led the investigation, will give a news conference in the afternoon, where the specific charges in the indictment by a grand jury convened are due to be disclosed. Trump and his allies have portrayed the charges as politically motivated.
In the end, the case against Trump will undoubtedly have significant implications for the 2024 presidential election. The charges will further polarize an already deeply divided political landscape, and the outcome of the case could either bolster Trump's support