Trump’s Pre-Civil War Strategy Raises Concerns of Avoiding Prison, Draws Comparisons to Nixon
In a recent discussion on MSNBC, historian Michael Beschloss conveyed his belief that former President Donald Trump is employing a strategy reminiscent of the pre-Civil War era in an attempt to evade imprisonment, even surpassing the tactics employed by Richard Nixon during the Watergate scandal. Commenting on Trump’s recent mugshot taken in Fulton County Jail, Beschloss noted the contrasting political atmosphere of the Nixon era, emphasizing that the United States was comparatively more united than it is now, and Trump is capitalizing on this division to protect himself from legal repercussions.
Drawing parallels between the two presidents, Beschloss highlighted the resolve exhibited by the Republican party during the Watergate scandal, noting their dedication to upholding national security and the rule of law. However, as evidence emerged showcasing Nixon’s clear obstruction of justice, the party ultimately turned against him. Beschloss underscored that even Nixon, despite his disregard for rules and law, would never have contemplated the strategy Trump seems to be deploying.
According to Beschloss, Trump’s potential course of action involves multiple trials, where his aim would be to win four or five of them. However, threading this needle would be a challenging task. Should Trump fail to achieve his desired outcome in court, he may resort to generating large crowds outside courthouses. The intention behind this could be to exert pressure on jurors and stakeholders, creating a situation reminiscent of the pre-Civil War era, with the sole objective of preserving his freedom.
Concluding his remarks, Beschloss emphasized that Trump’s strategies go far beyond those employed by Nixon, placing him in a category all his own. It is essential to note that while Beschloss raises concerns about Trump’s approach, he implies that it remains at the extremes of political tactics.
As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of a tumultuous presidency, reflecting on historical precedents serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in upholding the rule of law. Regardless of the outcome, the actions of Trump and their potential consequences will undoubtedly shape the American political landscape for years to come.
