With the series of alleged crimes, the former president, Donald Trump, might end up in the courtroom. If that happens, there is a real possibility that the former POTUS might be jailed.
It is a dream for some and a nightmare for others. But what does it mean for a country if an ex-president goes to jail?
Trump – one of the most divisive politicians in American history
Donald Trump’s potential criminal trial would certainly not be a good look for the US. After all, the States never had an ex-president on the verge of a criminal trial.
Trump already has a list of questionable accomplishments, including being one of five presidents who never won a popular vote, was impeached twice, and entered the White House without political or military experience.
Several investigations mention allegations against the former POTUS, including a financial case in New York, alleged January 6 crimes, and the 2020 Georgia elections.
Historians agree: an ex-POTUS in jail would not be a good thing
Previously, only two former presidents were close to being in Trump’s situation. John Tyler, the 10th US president, was to be treated as an ex-president accused of treason. However, he passed away.
Jefferson Davis was pardoned by President Andrew Johnson, as were all other rebels. This is another historical case that serves no purpose in discussing Donald Trump’s potential future.
Though it is possible, with no real examples, historians are certain only of one thing: an ex-president in jail would not be good for the US.
In other countries, ex-presidents have served time
In Italy and especially France, sending prominent political figures to jail is not uncommon. Some, like Berlusconi, managed to do time and regain the power to continue their political careers.
However, this is not the case with the US, so all allegations against Donald Trump must be carefully crafted. And regardless of his innocence or guilt, it will become a spectacle, if not worse.
Related: 47 Crazy Donald Trump Facts That Will Drive You Nuts
Trump could be in a "win-win" situation
According to the constitution, even if Trump goes to jail for the alleged crimes, he could run for president while incarcerated. This is all hypothetical, but if we get to that, Trump would be in a position where he has nothing to lose but gain more respect from his supporters.
In South America, several men in a position of power were sentenced to prison - Menem, Fujimori, and Lula. What the justice system saw as rightful, their supporters saw as an attack.
Political passion could always stand in the way of a fair trial, and the risk of further dividing the nation is too high.
Do you think Trump will even go to the court, or is that wishful thinking of the Democrats?
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A good way for the country to experience violent reaction not seen since the 1860's would be to attempt to arrest Donald Trump. The DOJ would be grossly underestimating the reaction of his supporters. They simply would not allow it to happen.