Key House Republican leaders came out in defense of former President Donald Trump after news broke that he had been indicted by a Manhattan grand jury. The response from top congressional Republicans highlights the continued hold that Trump has on the party.
Strong Statements from Key Republicans
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy tweeted his criticism of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, stating that “The American people will not tolerate this injustice.” Majority Leader Steve Scalise called the indictment “outrageous” and accused Democrats of weaponizing government to attack political opponents. Rep. Elise Stefanik referred to the indictment as a “political witch hunt” and a “dark day for America.”
Trump Rallies Support Among GOP Allies
In response to the indictment, Trump called allies on Capitol Hill, including members of House GOP leadership and lawmakers investigating Bragg’s office. The former president plans to fight the charges and continued to criticize Bragg and the indictment in the phone calls.
Outrage from Fierce Defenders
Several of Trump’s staunchest defenders on Capitol Hill took to social media to voice their outrage. Rep. Jim Jordan called the indictment “outrageous,” while Rep. Lauren Boebert called it another “political witch hunt.” Rep. Matt Gaetz tweeted that “the powerful will never stop coming for him” and accused the district attorney of having Trump Derangement Syndrome. Rep. Andy Biggs accused Bragg of being an extremist and politicizing the justice system.
One Moderate Republican Holds Back
Rep. Don Bacon, a moderate Republican, stated that he trusts the system and believes that justice will be served. He expressed confidence in the judge, jurors, and appeals process.
Republican Chairmen Double Down
Even before the indictment was announced, three Republican chairmen sent a letter requesting testimony from Bragg and information related to his investigation. Bragg’s office pushed back, but the Republican chairmen doubled down.
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The news of the indictment broke while lawmakers were on a two-week Easter recess, but Republican defenders on social media were quick to voice their support for Trump. The charges have not been made public yet, but the responses from key Republicans show the continued loyalty that Trump commands within the party.
