New York City is preparing for protests from supporters of the former US president over a possible impeachment process against Donald Trump. Trump himself had called for the demonstrations because he does not rule out an arrest on Tuesday for alleged hush money payments to former sex partners. Fences were erected in front of the Manhattan courthouse and the police presence was greatly increased.
“We’re monitoring social media comments,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams said. The New York Police Department is making sure there are no “improper acts” in the city, Adams said. He was “confident” that this could be done.
An indictment on Tuesday is unlikely, according to American media. Broadcaster CNN, among others, reported on Monday that this is now expected in the coming week at the earliest. New York prosecutors are investigating the former president-elect for hush money payments to porn actress Stormy Daniels and model Karen McDougal.
“Witch Hunt”
Investigators question whether Trump may have violated campaign finance laws by making the payment. Hush money isn’t illegal in the US, but the indictment could make Daniels’ $130,000 and McDougal’s $150,000 campaign donation illegal in New York State. Trump, who is running again for a Republican presidential nomination, sees the move as a politically motivated “witch hunt”.
Monday for the first protest in New York
Monday night there was a small protest in front of the courthouse in Manhattan – there were no riots. Broadcast station CNBC reports that the US secret service, together with the New York police, adjusted the security plans on Monday. Trump’s call for protests brought back memories of the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. At that time, Trump goaded his supporters before forcibly entering the Houses of Parliament in Washington.
Trump announced that he would appear voluntarily
Trump’s circle had assured that the ex-president would follow the usual procedure if an indictment were brought up – and would also voluntarily appear in court to find out details of possible charges. This would not require a sensational arrest. It is also considered likely that Trump could go home after such a formal procedure.
Support from rival DeSantis
Meanwhile, prominent US Republican Ron DeSantis has criticized the Trump investigation. The governor of the state of Florida spoke of a “political spectacle”. When a prosecutor ignores everyday crimes and instead deals with a case from years ago involving hush money paid to porn stars, they are pursuing a “political agenda” and using their office as a weapon.
DeSantis is currently considered Trump’s biggest internal party competitor, so his support is all the more surprising. He is also expected to run as a presidential candidate in the November 2024 elections.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
