On Friday morning, Joe Biden was asked about the impact of Donald Trump's indictment, to which he firmly replied with "no comment." Despite being pressed multiple times by reporters, he continued his White House's strategy of remaining silent. This approach towards Trump has been used for two years now, and with Trump's recent indictment in a New York hush-money case, White House officials plan to continue with their "keep quiet and carry on" playbook. However, this strategy may be challenged in the coming days as Republicans show support for Trump, criticize the U.S. judicial system, and some even plan a protest in New York City on Tuesday, the same day Trump is scheduled to appear in court in Manhattan. There are concerns that this protest, organized by Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, may become violent.
The Political Implications of Biden’s Silence on Trump’s Indictment
In the 2020 presidential election, Joe Biden, a Democrat, won by criticizing Trump and promising to restore America's soul after four years of chaotic rule. As president, he has often criticized Trump's allies and policies but has avoided targeting Trump directly. This silence, according to Democratic strategists, is a sensible political move.
Democratic Strategists’ Views on Biden’s Silence on Trump
Lis Smith, another Democratic strategist, notes that staying out of Trump's legal issues is a smart. Biden won the election due to voter exhaustion with the chaos of the Trump administration and the contrast between Biden focused on doing his job well. Trump and the Republican Party in turmoil will only benefit him.
The White House has refused to comment on Trump's situation, citing ongoing investigations by the Justice Department, which Biden has pledged to keep independent. However, if Trump's supporters react violently to the charges or Biden decides to run for re-election, he may be forced to confront Trump directly.
During the Capitol attack, Biden called on Trump to denounce the rioters and defend the Constitution. The White House has declined to comment on any measures to prevent violence related to the indictment, except to say they are always prepared and support peaceful protests.
Trump’s Plans to Plead Not Guilty and Run for President in 2024
Trump plans to plead not guilty to the charges and intends to continue running for president in 2024. According to sources close to the president, Biden sees Trump as promoting a dangerous movement, and his concerns about MAGA extremism are genuine.
Donna Brazile, a Democratic strategist, believes that since Biden has not declared himself a candidate for the 2024 election, he does not need to comment on Trump's situation and should refrain from interfering with the justice system.
