Opinion: Trump’s indictment bounce may well be a ‘sugar high’

Is Trump’s Indictment Bounce Just a Temporary ‘Sugar High’?

Former President Donald Trump’s recent surge in support may be short-lived, similar to a “sugar high.” While he is currently benefiting from increased donations, a change in tune from Fox News, and rising poll numbers, signs indicate that this boost may soon wear off. The New York Times published an article highlighting this phenomenon, titled “How Trump Benefits From an Indictment Effect.” However, Trump’s ultimate goal is to win the general election in November 2024, and the numerous criminal charges he is facing could become a significant burden. With 78 felony charges across three cases, including attempts to overturn the 2020 election and obstruction of justice, Trump’s legal troubles may hinder his chances of success. Despite pleading not guilty and denying any wrongdoing, these indictments could become an albatross around his neck.Trump’s Trial and Legal Woes: What You Need to Know

Trump’s trial over the 2020 election interference may start in early 2024 if special counsel Jack Smith has his way. Trump’s attorneys have not responded to Smith’s request to begin this trial on January 2, but we know from Trump’s classified documents case that his lawyers would like to delay a trial date as long as possible.

Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the election subversion case, made it clear during oral arguments that she intended to move this case forward without regard to the political calendar. There’s a real chance the former president could not only be tried but even potentially convicted by mid-2024.

Trump’s legal woes are also having an impact on his campaign funds. He’s hemorrhaging money to pay his lawyers, and his Save America PAC, which had more than $100 million at the beginning of 2022, now has only about $3.6 million in cash on hand.

This PAC has become the primary vehicle to pay legal bills for Trump and his associates, and FEC reports show it and five other Trump-related committees have spent more than $40 million in legal fees since the beginning of 2021.

Trump’s indictments have also cost him funds in another unexpected way. He recently began running ads attacking prosecutors who are investigating him. That is money he could have spent on ads attacking his fellow Republicans vying for the 2024 presidential nomination or even criticizing President Joe Biden.

And while Trump’s criminal charges yielded “an online gold mine,” according to The New York Times, it’s unclear how much this bump in fundraising will continue. The day Trump pleaded not guilty to 34 felony criminal charges in his first indictment, his campaign raised nearly $4 million in online donations. But he raised a little more than a quarter of that amount online when he was arraigned on the second indictment in the classified documents case.

Then there are polls of voters beyond the GOP base that raise red flags for Trump in the general election. A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll conducted after his indictment in the election interference case found that nearly two-thirds of Americans believe the charges against him are serious.

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Don’t miss out on the latest updates and insights into Trump’s trial and legal battles. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know.Majority of Americans Agree Trump Should Have Been Charged, Poll Finds

A recent poll has revealed that a majority of Americans, including independent voters, believe that former President Donald Trump should have been charged. The poll shows that 52% of Americans agree with this sentiment, while only 32% believe he should not have been charged.

No Spike in General Election Polls for Trump

Despite seeing a surge in popularity for the GOP’s 2024 presidential nominee race, Donald Trump has not experienced a similar increase in general election polls. A recent survey conducted by The New York Times and Siena College found that Trump and Biden are tied at 43% in a hypothetical matchup.

The Polarized Electorate and the 2024 Presidential Election

Given the polarized nature of our electorate, the upcoming 2024 presidential election is expected to be a close race, regardless of the Republican nominee. However, with Trump currently facing 78 criminal charges and the possibility of more to come, his current surge in popularity within the GOP primary is likely to come crashing down. And rightfully so.

Conclusion

This poll provides valuable insight into the opinions of Americans regarding the charges against Donald Trump. It highlights the divided views within the country and raises questions about the future of his political career. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, it will be interesting to see how these sentiments impact the race and the overall political landscape.
Is Trump’s Indictment Bounce Just a Temporary ‘Sugar High’?

The recent indictment of former President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Many supporters of the former president have rallied behind him, viewing the indictment as a vindictive attempt to undermine his legacy. However, it is important to question whether this surge in support is merely a temporary “sugar high” or if it represents a lasting shift in public opinion.

First and foremost, it is crucial to acknowledge that the indictment itself is a significant event. A former president being indicted is an unprecedented occurrence in American history, and it naturally garners attention and generates strong reactions. Trump’s supporters, who have long believed in his innocence, see the indictment as further evidence of a biased and unfair system targeting their leader. This perception has undoubtedly fueled their fervent support.

However, it is essential to consider the broader context surrounding Trump’s indictment. The initial surge in support may be driven by emotions and a sense of loyalty to the former president. Supporters may feel compelled to rally behind him in the face of what they perceive as unjust treatment. But as time goes on, the initial shock and outrage may fade, and a more nuanced perspective may emerge.

Furthermore, the indictment itself is not the only factor at play. Trump’s political career has been marked by controversy and polarizing rhetoric. While he has a dedicated base of supporters, he has also faced significant opposition throughout his presidency. The indictment may have galvanized his supporters, but it is unlikely to sway those who have long been critical of his actions and policies.

Moreover, the outcome of the indictment will play a crucial role in determining the long-term impact on public opinion. If Trump is found guilty and faces significant legal consequences, it may further erode his support base. On the other hand, if he is acquitted or the charges are dropped, it could bolster his image as a victim of a politically motivated attack. The final verdict will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding Trump’s indictment and influence public perception.

It is also worth noting that public opinion is not static. People’s views can change over time, influenced by new information, events, and evolving political dynamics. While Trump’s indictment may have initially energized his supporters, it remains to be seen whether this surge in support will be sustained in the long run. As the political landscape continues to evolve, other issues and controversies may arise, diverting attention and potentially shifting public opinion.

In conclusion, the recent indictment of former President Donald Trump has undoubtedly sparked a surge in support among his loyal base. However, it is important to question whether this support represents a lasting shift in public opinion or if it is merely a temporary “sugar high.” The outcome of the indictment, as well as future events and developments, will ultimately determine the long-term impact on Trump’s support base. Only time will tell if this surge in support is sustainable or if it will fade away as new issues emerge on the political horizon.

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