Former President Donald J. Trump is currently facing trial in Manhattan, New York, for allegedly falsifying financial records to conceal hush money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. This trial, known as People of New York State vs. Donald J. Trump, is considered the least significant among the four pending cases against Trump. However, it could be the only one to reach a verdict before November.
The charges against Trump carry real legal consequences, and the trial’s outcome could have a significant impact on his political aspirations. While an acquittal or mistrial remains a possibility, a conviction would likely result in a marginal loss of support, according to polls. In a polarized electorate, the 2024 election will be decided within the margins of a few battleground states, similar to previous elections.
During the trial, Trump is compelled to spend a considerable amount of time in the courtroom, where he is mostly silenced and diminished. His usual swagger outside the court may appeal to his loyal supporters, but as he enters the general election campaign, he needs to expand his support rather than alienate voters with unpresidential behavior and his mere presence in the criminal dock.
The sordid details of the case, involving payments to Karen McDougal and Stormy Daniels, both of whom will testify, will be rehashed, potentially with new revelations. These details may not resonate well with fence-sitting voters, particularly women. While the judge barred prosecutors from mentioning Melania Trump’s pregnancy during Trump’s alleged affair with McDougal, journalists are free to highlight the timing and the fact that Trump’s alleged tryst with Daniels occurred shortly after the birth of his son, Barron.
Although video cameras are not allowed in the courtroom due to New York state law, the visual optics are unfavorable for the former president. Trump’s appearances behind metal barricades, reminiscent of the barriers used during the Capitol riot, give an unflattering impression. Additionally, Trump’s violation of the judge’s gag order, resulting in fines and restrictions on publicly criticizing witnesses and court personnel, raises concerns about his respect for the rule of law.
Photographers have been permitted to capture images of Trump at the defense table before the proceedings begin, and he willingly poses for them. However, these photos, along with his performances for broadcast cameras outside the courtroom, do not present him in a favorable light. Trump appears aged, haggard, and puffy, with pronounced bags under his eyes. His scowling demeanor fails to convey the power he believes it does, making him seem small, silent, and isolated.
Courtroom artists’ sketches, particularly those depicting Trump napping, have garnered attention. Reports of Trump dozing off during the trial have become a politically charged meme, undermining his repeated mockery of President Joe Biden as “Sleepy Joe.” Late-night comedians and political cartoonists have seized upon this opportunity, and even the Biden campaign has joined in, mocking “Sleepy Don” with a lullaby.
