Mike Pence, former vice president of the United States, has reacted after Donald Trump was convicted in New York City on Friday. He called it a “terrible message”.
Pence said that the conviction of former President Trump for charges based on political motivations was a disservice and outrage to our nation.
Pence said, “Nobody’s above the law but our courts can’t be used to attack political opponents. To millions of people, this was nothing more than a political prosecution by a Manhattan DA who ran for office on a promise to charge the former President. This conviction undermines confidence in our justice systems. ”
He said, “This conviction is a terrible message for the world to hear about the American Justice System. It further divides us at a time when the American people suffer under the failed policies that the Biden Administration implemented both domestically and abroad. ”
Pence continued, “Having been convicted before a court of law, the former president has the right to appeal. I am confident this conviction will be reversed in an appeal in a manner that restores the public’s confidence in our justice and equality before the law. ”
On Thursday, Trump was found guilty on all counts in his criminal trial. He is the first former US President to be convicted.
After the verdict, the former president spoke to reporters outside of the courtroom.
“This was an embarrassment. ”
Trump said, “The true result will be determined by the verdict of the voters on November 5th.”
Pence is now one of the many Republicans who are defending Trump’s conviction. Pence had previously opposed Trump’s indictment.
Pence told CNN in March 2023 that it was “outrageous” that a former US President had been indicted over a campaign finance issue.
Pence’s relationship deteriorated with Trump after the January 6 Riots. The president accused him of not returning disputed ballots to state legislatures when he was the Senate President. Pence stated in March that he doesn’t endorse the former President.
Pence stated at the time it shouldn’t be a surprise if he didn’t endorse Donald Trump for this election.
“I am incredibly proud of our record. “
