Peoria, Illinois — House Speaker Mike Johnson took a firm stand in defense of former President Donald Trump at a GOP fundraiser in Illinois on Saturday. This came as Illinois Republicans seized on a Manhattan jury’s guilty verdict against Trump as a rallying point for his campaign.
Support Amid Controversy
Addressing reporters before the event, Johnson, a staunch Trump supporter, emphasized that if he were Trump’s attorney, he would appeal to the Supreme Court. His comments followed a surge in donations to Trump’s campaign, raising $53 million shortly after the verdict. Johnson noted that House Republicans also saw a significant fundraising boost, although he did not provide specific numbers.
“Trump is not just our nominee, not just an individual running for president. He is now seen as a symbol, a symbol of one who is willing to fight back against corruption, the deep state, and all the rest,” Johnson asserted.
Grassroots Reaction
The verdict has energized Trump’s base, with many viewing it as a politically motivated attack. Frank Hernandez, a retired Caterpillar employee attending the fundraiser, expressed his belief that the verdict was a result of a conspiracy involving prosecutors, the judge, and President Biden.
Impact on the GOP and Polling Data
The verdict’s full impact on the 2024 presidential campaign remains uncertain. Initial polls suggested potential setbacks for Trump, with a Morning Consult poll indicating that 12% of 2020 Trump voters believe he should end his campaign. Additionally, a Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 10% of Republicans and 25% of independents are less likely to support Trump post-conviction.
Despite these figures, over one-third of Republicans polled said they were more likely to vote for Trump following his felony conviction, underscoring a deepening divide within the party.
Party Unity and Fundraising
Former Illinois Rep. Joe Walsh, a Trump critic, acknowledged the complexity of Trump’s influence, suggesting that the verdict might actually unify the party around him. This sentiment was echoed by other Illinois Republicans who noted a surge in pro-Trump sentiment and fundraising. Rhonda Belford, an Illinois Republican state central committee member, remarked on the significant increase in donations, likening it to a backlash against Democrats.
Democratic Response
Democrats have yet to solidify their messaging strategy post-verdict. In Massachusetts, at a state party convention, leaders like Gov. Maura Healey and Sen. Elizabeth Warren focused on the potential dangers of a second Trump term rather than directly addressing the verdict. However, other Democrats did not hold back, with Sen. Ed Markey and Rep. Jim McGovern making pointed references to Trump’s criminal record.
Warren’s warning about Trump’s dictatorial aspirations drew strong reactions from the crowd, who chanted “Lock him up!” in response.
Conclusion
The Manhattan jury’s guilty verdict against Donald Trump has become a significant rallying point for both his supporters and detractors. While initial polls suggest mixed reactions among voters, the verdict has undeniably galvanized Trump’s base, leading to substantial fundraising efforts and a renewed sense of unity among his supporters. The coming months will reveal the long-term implications of the verdict on Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign and the broader political landscape.
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