Former President Donald Trump has announced that he has been indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice for allegedly mishandling sensitive government documents. Reactions to this news include U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy stating that it is a dark day for the United States of America and that House Republicans will hold the weaponization of power accountable. Democrat Congressman Dan Goldman emphasized that no person, including a former President, is above the law and that Trump has constitutional rights to a trial by jury, to confront his accusers, and to legal counsel. Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed concern about the apparent differential enforcement and the need for the justice system to rebut it to maintain public trust. Republican candidates for nomination, Asa Hutchinson and Vivek Ramaswamy, both expressed disappointment in Trump’s actions and their commitment to principles over politics.
As the world was rocked by the news that Donald Trump had been indicted on charges of inciting the riots that took place at the Capitol Building in Washington D.C., people everywhere showed their reactions.
Worldwide government officials expressed their shock and disapproval over the former president’s actions. Leaders in Europe, Africa and Asia echoed the feelings of those in the United States; denouncing him for his role in the violence. The United Nations Security Council also issued a statement condemning the assault on the Capitol and called for those behind it to be brought to justice.
At home, President Joe Biden made his views known in a press conference where he stated that Trump’s actions indicated the “most grievous betrayal of his office and his oath to the Constitution”. He also urged his Republican colleagues to disassociate themselves from the former president’s actions.
The American public was similarly critical of Trump’s behavior. Social media was a hub of reaction, with people from all walks of life expressing their opinions—from shock and anger to vindication and joy. Several Civil Rights organizations launched campaigns in support of holding the former president responsible.
While the results of his trial remain to be seen, the almost immediate reactions show a clear disregard for Trump’s actions and his involvement in the riots at the Capitol Building. The events of January 6th, 2021 have made it clear to the world that violence and disregarding the law are unacceptable—especially from the most powerful people in the world.
