In the wake of Donald Trump’s guilty verdict, fervent MAGA supporters have ignited discussions of a potential “civil war.” Trump was found guilty on all 34 charges of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 payment to former adult film star Stormy Daniels.
Trump’s loyal base has reacted with intense displeasure to the verdict, with ardent supporters warning that this decision could precipitate a “civil war.” Many supporters have taken to social media platforms, expressing their outrage and questioning the implications for Trump’s 2024 presidential candidacy.
Political commentator Joey Mannarino voiced the sentiments of many, stating on X, “The Civil War just began. We no longer live in a democracy.” He further added, “As of today, with this fake guilty verdict against Trump, America is no longer the United States. We are a third-world sh–hole heading for a Civil War.” Similarly, conservative commentator Tim Pool succinctly posted, “War” in reaction to the news.
This rhetoric reflects the deep-seated anger among Trump’s base, some of whom have previously resorted to violence, as seen during the January 6, 2021, storming of the U.S. Capitol. The verdict has intensified these sentiments, with predictions of a violent backlash from some quarters. Todd Landman, a political science professor at the University of Nottingham, highlighted the potential for such a response, noting that for many, the verdict symbolizes political persecution led by Democrats.
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Trump’s conviction marks a historic moment, making him the first U.S. president or former president to be found guilty of felony crimes. The former president has repeatedly denied the accusations, dismissing the case as a politically motivated “witch hunt.” Outside the courtroom, he condemned the trial as a “disgrace” and “rigged” by a “conflicted judge.”
Despite the conviction, Trump’s legal team plans to appeal the verdict, and he is scheduled for sentencing on July 11. This legal turmoil has cast uncertainty over his Republican candidacy for the November elections, with questions arising about the potential for a jail term. While the charges carry a possible prison sentence of up to four years per count, it remains unlikely that Judge Juan Merchan will impose jail time on Trump, considering his age and status as a first-time offender.
Adding to the turmoil, Trump’s wife, Melania, and daughter, Ivanka, were conspicuously absent from the courtroom throughout the trial, which reportedly troubled Trump. His former press secretary, Stephanie Grisham, confirmed that their absence likely bothered him significantly, indicating a personal dimension to his public and legal challenges.
As the sentencing date approaches, the fervor among MAGA supporters highlights the profound divisions within the country, exacerbated by Trump’s legal battles and the polarized political climate.
