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Former President Donald Trump was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury Thursday for his role in a $130,000 hush money payment to Stormy Daniels in the days before the 2016 election.
Trump predicted he’d be arrested earlier this month, posting on his social media site Truth Social that his supporters should “PROTEST, TAKE OUR NATION BACK.” He later warned there could be “potential death and destruction” if he should be charged with a crime.
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Read live updates on the aftermath of the grand jury’s vote below:
Pinned
Here’s The Latest …
If you’re just joining us Friday, here are some key updates:
- Trump was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury on Thursday, about 26 months after leaving office. He is to be arraigned Tuesday in New York, court officials said. While we do not yet know what specific charges are being levied against him, the investigation stemmed from the hush-money payment made to adult film actor Stormy Daniels in the weeks leading up to the 2016 presidential election.
- Many of Trump’s top Republican allies have come out with statements denouncing the indictment.
- After sharing a prepared statement on Truth Social decrying the "Political Persecution," Trump has been sharing clip after clip from right-wing news networks like Fox News that covered his indictment, along with his allies' Truth Social posts. That’s between his apparently off-the-cuff posts about what he calls the “Witch Hunt Case."
- Trump lawyer Joe Tacopina said his client was initially “shocked” to hear he’d been indicted.
- The Biden White House has declined to comment.
Trump To Speak Tuesday Evening
The Associated Press reports Trump will hold an event at his Mar-a-Lago club after returning from Manhattan, where he is expected to voluntarily turn himself in. He is expected to be joined in Florida by supporters as he tries to project an image of strength and defiance and turn the charges into a political asset to boost his 2024 presidential campaign.
At Least One Felony Charge: Report
More news about the indictment continues to trickle out. The Associated Press reported Friday evening that at least one of the charges against Trump is a felony charge, according to two people familiar with the matter. He's reportedly facing more than 30 counts total.
Looking Ahead To Next Week
NBC New York reports that Trump will fly to New York on Monday and stay the night in Trump Tower before surrendering Tuesday morning.
We'll continue covering news around the indictment through the weekend on HuffPost.com.
We'll continue covering news around the indictment through the weekend on HuffPost.com.
Graham Makes Strange Suggestion
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) had some bizarre advice for how Trump should behave on the way to his expected arraignment on Tuesday.
Federal Authorities Warn Senate Over Potential ‘Threats,’ Protests
Senate staff were briefed Friday over the potential for “credible threats against the Capitol” and demonstrations related to Trump’s indictment.
A joint memo by United States Capitol Police and the Senate sergeant-at-arms states that authorities haven’t identified any specific threats thus far, but warns about the potential for unrest nationwide following Trump’s indictment.
"There is potential for demonstration activity … so you may observe a greater law enforcement presence on Capitol Hill," the memo reads.
A joint memo by United States Capitol Police and the Senate sergeant-at-arms states that authorities haven’t identified any specific threats thus far, but warns about the potential for unrest nationwide following Trump’s indictment.
"There is potential for demonstration activity … so you may observe a greater law enforcement presence on Capitol Hill," the memo reads.
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Stormy Daniels: 'It's Vindication'
In an interview with The Times of London, Daniels called Trump's indictment "vindication."
"I am fully aware of the insanity of it being a porn star. But it’s also poetic; this pussy grabbed back," she said, referencing a tape of Trump that was made public just before the 2016 election in which he declared he could grab women "by the pussy" because he's "a star."
Daniels did express concern over how the indictment would "divide people," noting Trump has "already gotten away with inciting a riot."
“Whatever the outcome is, it’s going to cause violence, and there’s going to be injuries and death,” Daniels said. “There’s the potential for a lot of good to come from this. But either way, a lot of bad is going to come from it, too.”
"I am fully aware of the insanity of it being a porn star. But it’s also poetic; this pussy grabbed back," she said, referencing a tape of Trump that was made public just before the 2016 election in which he declared he could grab women "by the pussy" because he's "a star."
Daniels did express concern over how the indictment would "divide people," noting Trump has "already gotten away with inciting a riot."
“Whatever the outcome is, it’s going to cause violence, and there’s going to be injuries and death,” Daniels said. “There’s the potential for a lot of good to come from this. But either way, a lot of bad is going to come from it, too.”
Ivanka Trump: ‘Pained’ For Dad And USA
Trump’s eldest daughter waited a beat before making any public comment on the indictment. While her brothers posted in the minutes after the news broke, Ivanka Trump added a note to her Instagram Story on Friday.
“I love my father, and I love my country. Today, I am pained for both. I appreciate the voices across the political spectrum expressing support and concern," she said.
“I love my father, and I love my country. Today, I am pained for both. I appreciate the voices across the political spectrum expressing support and concern," she said.
Trump Rages Against Judge Assigned To Case
In yet another post to Truth Social, Trump claimed the judge assigned to his case “HATES” him.
“His name is Juan Manuel Marchan, was hand picked by [Manhattan District Attorney Alvin] Bragg & the Prosecutors,” Trump said, misspelling “Merchan,” the judge involved in the case against former Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg. The former CFO is serving time on Rikers Island after pleading guilty to tax fraud.
“He strong armed Allen, which a judge is not allowed to do, & treated my companies, which didn't ‘plead,’ VICIOUSLY. APPEALING!” Trump wrote.
“His name is Juan Manuel Marchan, was hand picked by [Manhattan District Attorney Alvin] Bragg & the Prosecutors,” Trump said, misspelling “Merchan,” the judge involved in the case against former Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg. The former CFO is serving time on Rikers Island after pleading guilty to tax fraud.
“He strong armed Allen, which a judge is not allowed to do, & treated my companies, which didn't ‘plead,’ VICIOUSLY. APPEALING!” Trump wrote.
The GOP Argument
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) said Thursday night that a Democratic prosecutor’s criminal charges against former President Donald Trump represent nothing less than an assault on the United States of America.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg “has irreparably damaged our country” in an effort to tilt the 2024 presidential election in favor of Democrats, according to the most powerful Republican on Capitol Hill.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg “has irreparably damaged our country” in an effort to tilt the 2024 presidential election in favor of Democrats, according to the most powerful Republican on Capitol Hill.
White House: Biden Found Out About Trump Indictment Through News Reports
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to comment on Trump's indictment, and said the White House learned of the grand jury's decision through the media.
“All of us, including the president, found out about the news yesterday, just like every other American through the news reports," Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard a flight to Mississippi.
“All of us, including the president, found out about the news yesterday, just like every other American through the news reports," Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard a flight to Mississippi.
Reporter Describes The Scene Of The Indictment
Michael R. Sisak of The Associated Press described the moment Trump's indictment was brought to the clerk’s office at the Manhattan criminal courthouse on Thursday, noting things "grew quiet and tense" as reporters realized something was up.
Jared Kushner: 'It's Been Hard To Watch' Trump Indictment
Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner on Friday called the ex-president's indictment "unprecedented," adding that the criminal charges are politically motivated.
"As an American, it's very troubling to me to see the leader of the opposition party be indicted, and I think that that shows obviously the fear that the Democrats have of Trump and the political strength that he has," Kushner said from the stage of the FII Institute's Priotity summit in Miami.
"As a family member, obviously Ivanka and I love him very much, it's been hard to watch the opponents of him politically continue to break every norm over the last years to try to get him," Kushner continued.
Kushner said those challenges won't hold Trump back.
"I've been by him during a lot of these instances and it's only made him stronger," he said.
"As an American, it's very troubling to me to see the leader of the opposition party be indicted, and I think that that shows obviously the fear that the Democrats have of Trump and the political strength that he has," Kushner said from the stage of the FII Institute's Priotity summit in Miami.
"As a family member, obviously Ivanka and I love him very much, it's been hard to watch the opponents of him politically continue to break every norm over the last years to try to get him," Kushner continued.
Kushner said those challenges won't hold Trump back.
"I've been by him during a lot of these instances and it's only made him stronger," he said.
VP Harris: No Comment
Vice President Kamala Harris declined to weigh in on Donald Trump's indictment during a news conference in Lusaka, Zambia.
"I am not going to comment on an ongoing criminal case as it relates to the former president," Harris said in an appearance alongside Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
"I am not going to comment on an ongoing criminal case as it relates to the former president," Harris said in an appearance alongside Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
Greene Calls For Protests
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) tweeted Friday that she'd be going to New York on Tuesday, the expected day of Trump's arrest, and called on people to protest.
Trump's Sharing A Lot Of Fox News Clips
Trump kept busy posting to his social media platform Truth Social on Friday morning, sharing more than 15 video clips from Fox News' coverage of his indictment.
His campaign also sent another fundraising email tied to the indictment, sharing quotes from Trump describing "the battle I willingly signed up for when I decided to take on the entire Washington Machine as a political outsider 8 years ago, and be YOUR voice."
His campaign also sent another fundraising email tied to the indictment, sharing quotes from Trump describing "the battle I willingly signed up for when I decided to take on the entire Washington Machine as a political outsider 8 years ago, and be YOUR voice."
Warren: 'Take A Deep Breath'
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) on Friday shared her reaction to the news of Donald Trump's indictment.
"No one is above the law," Warren said. "Not even a former president of the United States."
Warren said the Manhattan grand jury's decision demonstrated that "a foundational piece of our democracy is holding, that it is possible to have an independent investigation."
Asked if she is worried about possible violence amid Trump's call for supporters to protest, Warren replied: "Violence is never the answer."
"I think that's why it's important for as many people as possible to take a deep breath," Warren continued.
"No one is above the law," Warren said. "Not even a former president of the United States."
Warren said the Manhattan grand jury's decision demonstrated that "a foundational piece of our democracy is holding, that it is possible to have an independent investigation."
Asked if she is worried about possible violence amid Trump's call for supporters to protest, Warren replied: "Violence is never the answer."
"I think that's why it's important for as many people as possible to take a deep breath," Warren continued.
AP
Trump Supporters Out In Palm Beach
Trang Le of Orlando, right, and Maria Korynsel of North Palm Beach, show their support for Trump near Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.
Trump Team Will Try To Get Case Dismissed, Lawyer Says
James Trusty, a lawyer who represents Donald Trump in the classified documents probe, told "CNN This Morning" he expects the former president's legal team to try to get the Stormy Daniels charges dismissed.
“I would think in very short order, you'll see a motion to dismiss — or several motions to dismiss," Trusty said.
Asked if he anticipates those motions to be filed before the indictment is unsealed on Tuesday, Trusty said "it will be soon."
"I think this will be something you can expect in days or weeks, not weeks or months," Trusty added.
“I would think in very short order, you'll see a motion to dismiss — or several motions to dismiss," Trusty said.
Asked if he anticipates those motions to be filed before the indictment is unsealed on Tuesday, Trusty said "it will be soon."
"I think this will be something you can expect in days or weeks, not weeks or months," Trusty added.
Fox Host: Trump Mug Shot 'Will Be In Dorm Rooms And On T-Shirts'
Fox News personality Pete Hegseth joined the conservative network’s railing against the indictment of Donald Trump with a prediction about the former president’s mug shot, once he’s arrested.
"This is a horrible night for our republic but politically a great night for Donald Trump,” Hegseth said on Thursday’s broadcast of “Hannity.”
"This is a horrible night for our republic but politically a great night for Donald Trump,” Hegseth said on Thursday’s broadcast of “Hannity.”
Haberman: This Is A 'Really Scary' Moment For Trump
New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman warned that Donald Trump doesn’t have “control” of the consequences after a Manhattan grand jury indicted him on Thursday.
Haberman, a CNN analyst, pointed out during a discussion on “Anderson Cooper 360,” that Trump’s booking, expected on Tuesday, will be different than for other defendants, as the Secret Service will be involved.
Haberman, a CNN analyst, pointed out during a discussion on “Anderson Cooper 360,” that Trump’s booking, expected on Tuesday, will be different than for other defendants, as the Secret Service will be involved.
No Comment From Biden
As President Joe Biden exited the White House Friday morning, he refused to comment on the Trump indictment, according to the White House pool report.
Tucker: Trump Arrest 'An Assault On Our System'
Tucker Carlson reacted with predictable indignation to Donald Trump’s indictment, characterizing it as worse for the nation than the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.
“If you believe in our system, and you want it to continue, you have to raise your hand and say stop,” the Fox News host said Thursday night. “Because this is too great an assault on our system ― much greater than anything we saw on Jan. 6, that’s for sure.”
“If you believe in our system, and you want it to continue, you have to raise your hand and say stop,” the Fox News host said Thursday night. “Because this is too great an assault on our system ― much greater than anything we saw on Jan. 6, that’s for sure.”
Cohen: Keep It 'Classy'
Michael Cohen said Thursday that he doesn’t want his former boss Donald Trump to be “paraded” during his arrest, expected next week, following the former president’s indictment in the Stormy Daniels hush-money case.
Trump Lawyer: No Handcuffs For The Former Pres
While many have speculated what kind of images we'll see from a Trump arrest — with some going as far as creating fake images using AI — his attorney told ABC today he would not be put in handcuffs.
Trump Was 'Shocked' To Hear Indictment News, His Lawyer Says
Trump lawyer Joe Tacopina shared the former president's reaction to the news of his indictment by a Manhattan grand jury.
"He initially was shocked," Tacopina told NBC's "Today" show Friday. "After he got over that, he put a notch on his belt and he decided we have to fight now."
"He got into a typical Donald Trump posture where he's ready to be combative on something that he believes is an injustice," Tacopina continued.
"He initially was shocked," Tacopina told NBC's "Today" show Friday. "After he got over that, he put a notch on his belt and he decided we have to fight now."
"He got into a typical Donald Trump posture where he's ready to be combative on something that he believes is an injustice," Tacopina continued.
Jen Psaki: White House Won't Want 'To Feed Into The Politics' Of Trump's Indictment
Former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, now an MSNBC anchor, said one of the biggest challenges for the White House will be "keeping everybody as quiet as possible" amid the news of Donald Trump's indictment.
The White House, and President Joe Biden, have so far refrained from weighing in on the criminal charges facing the ex-president.
“They’re going to be very quiet for as long as they can," Psaki told MSNBC's Chris Hayes Thursday evening. "In part, because as a policy they don’t comment on ongoing criminal investigations, but also because they don’t want to feed into the politics of this.”
The White House, and President Joe Biden, have so far refrained from weighing in on the criminal charges facing the ex-president.
“They’re going to be very quiet for as long as they can," Psaki told MSNBC's Chris Hayes Thursday evening. "In part, because as a policy they don’t comment on ongoing criminal investigations, but also because they don’t want to feed into the politics of this.”
Declared And Likely GOP Presidential Hopefuls React To Trump News
Several declared and likely GOP 2024 presidential candidates spoke out on the news of Trump's unprecedented indictment.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who polls show would be Trump's strongest rival for the GOP nomination, denounced the indictment as "un-American" and said his state would harbor Trump as a fugitive if he doesn't surrender.
Another potentially leading contender, former Vice President Mike Pence, called the indictment an "outrage."
"This is more about revenge than it is about justice," wrote Nikki Haley, who announced her White House run in February.
Vivek Ramaswamy, another declared GOP presidential candidate, called the indictment “wrong” and “dangerous.”
“If this had been anybody else other than Donald Trump on this set of facts, it would have been charged as a misdemeanor at most, if at all,” Ramaswamy said. “Yet, what we see right now is a ruling party in our country that will stop at nothing, even using police force to arrest its political opponents.”
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R), who is reportedly considering a presidential announcement, said Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg acted “for pure political gain.”
“The left’s continued attempts to weaponize our judicial system erode people’s faith in the American justice system and it needs to stop,” Youngkin tweeted.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, another likely contender, echoed Youngkin, calling on Bragg to “spend taxpayers’ money and your energy protecting law-abiding citizens. Not playing politics.”
Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, a Trump critic who is considering entering the race, struck a different tone, urging Americans to be patient.
"We need to wait on the facts and for our American system of justice to work like it does for thousands of Americans every day,” Hutchinson said in a statement.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who polls show would be Trump's strongest rival for the GOP nomination, denounced the indictment as "un-American" and said his state would harbor Trump as a fugitive if he doesn't surrender.
Another potentially leading contender, former Vice President Mike Pence, called the indictment an "outrage."
"This is more about revenge than it is about justice," wrote Nikki Haley, who announced her White House run in February.
Vivek Ramaswamy, another declared GOP presidential candidate, called the indictment “wrong” and “dangerous.”
“If this had been anybody else other than Donald Trump on this set of facts, it would have been charged as a misdemeanor at most, if at all,” Ramaswamy said. “Yet, what we see right now is a ruling party in our country that will stop at nothing, even using police force to arrest its political opponents.”
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R), who is reportedly considering a presidential announcement, said Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg acted “for pure political gain.”
“The left’s continued attempts to weaponize our judicial system erode people’s faith in the American justice system and it needs to stop,” Youngkin tweeted.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, another likely contender, echoed Youngkin, calling on Bragg to “spend taxpayers’ money and your energy protecting law-abiding citizens. Not playing politics.”
Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, a Trump critic who is considering entering the race, struck a different tone, urging Americans to be patient.
"We need to wait on the facts and for our American system of justice to work like it does for thousands of Americans every day,” Hutchinson said in a statement.
Pelosi, Thompson Speak Out On Trump's Indictment
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Thursday said the Manhattan grand jury that voted to indict former President Donald Trump "acted upon the facts and the law."
"No one is above the law, and everyone has the right to a trial to prove innocence," Pelosi wrote on Twitter. "Hopefully, the former President will peacefully respect the system, which grants him that right."
Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), the former chair of the House select committee tasked with investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, called the indictment a "stain on our democracy."
"Trump must be held accountable," he added.
The Jan. 6 committee in December, voted to refer four criminal charges against Trump to the Justice Department for his role in the Capitol riot.
"No one is above the law, and everyone has the right to a trial to prove innocence," Pelosi wrote on Twitter. "Hopefully, the former President will peacefully respect the system, which grants him that right."
Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), the former chair of the House select committee tasked with investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, called the indictment a "stain on our democracy."
"Trump must be held accountable," he added.
The Jan. 6 committee in December, voted to refer four criminal charges against Trump to the Justice Department for his role in the Capitol riot.
'Why Am I Any Different' From Trump? Michael Cohen Asks
Donald Trump's former personal fixer Michael Cohen, who served prison time for his role in the hush money scheme, told CNN's Don Lemon and Alisyn Camerota that Trump is "trying to play the tough guy" following his indictment by a Manhattan grand jury.
Cohen, who testified before the grand jury, addressed the suggestion that Trump's indictment is less significant than the other criminal investigations the former president is facing, for instance over his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.
"I always called this the Al Capone theory," Cohen said.
"They couldn’t get him on murder, extortion, racketeering, bootlegging, etc. They got him on tax evasion. If that crime, Don, was enough for me to be charged, fined, convicted and sent to prison, why am I any different from Donald Trump?” he added.
Cohen orchestrated the $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels in the days before the 2016 election on behalf of the former president.
Trump has denied the allegation.
Cohen added that he wouldn't like to see Trump "paraded" during his arrest, expected on Tuesday.
"Personally, I don’t want to see him paraded that way,” Cohen said. "Because he’s the former president of the United States. Because I actually care more about the office of the presidency of the United States than he does."
Cohen, who testified before the grand jury, addressed the suggestion that Trump's indictment is less significant than the other criminal investigations the former president is facing, for instance over his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.
"I always called this the Al Capone theory," Cohen said.
"They couldn’t get him on murder, extortion, racketeering, bootlegging, etc. They got him on tax evasion. If that crime, Don, was enough for me to be charged, fined, convicted and sent to prison, why am I any different from Donald Trump?” he added.
Cohen orchestrated the $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels in the days before the 2016 election on behalf of the former president.
Trump has denied the allegation.
Cohen added that he wouldn't like to see Trump "paraded" during his arrest, expected on Tuesday.
"Personally, I don’t want to see him paraded that way,” Cohen said. "Because he’s the former president of the United States. Because I actually care more about the office of the presidency of the United States than he does."
More On Pence's Reaction
Read more on what Pence said during his interview with Wolf Blitzer.
Pence On Trump's Indictment
Echoing other Trump-supporting Republicans, former Vice President Mike Pence called the historic indictment an “outrage” during an interview with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer on Thursday night.
Pence described the indictment as a “great disservice to the country,” adding that the idea of a president being indicted on a “campaign finance issue … smacks of political prosecution.”
“I think the unprecedented indictment of a former president of the United States on a campaign finance issue is an outrage,” Pence also said.
Despite defending Trump, Pence admitted to Blitzer that "no one is above the law, including former presidents.”
Pence described the indictment as a “great disservice to the country,” adding that the idea of a president being indicted on a “campaign finance issue … smacks of political prosecution.”
“I think the unprecedented indictment of a former president of the United States on a campaign finance issue is an outrage,” Pence also said.
Despite defending Trump, Pence admitted to Blitzer that "no one is above the law, including former presidents.”
'Probably Not The Best Time To Give Up Your AR-15,' Tucker Carlson Tells Viewers
After a guest on his show warned that Donald Trump’s indictment marked a “civil war era” in the United States, Fox News host Tucker Carlson remarked that Americans should hold on to their assault rifles.
Carlson’s guest, right-wing activist Ned Ryun, also warned that America was headed for a “one-party state and authoritarian government” and urged Republicans to take up a policy of “mutually assured destruction” against Democrats, whom he accused of “launching nukes at us.”
“Probably not the best time to give up your AR-15, and I think most people know that,” Carlson commented after Ryun’s spiel.
Carlson hyped up the possibility of impending armed conflict for his entire show. Noting the recent mass shooting in Nashville, Tennessee, and Donald Trump’s indictment, Carlson had earlier asked a guest, “It almost feels like they're pushing the population to react. ‘We think they’re demoralized and passive, let's see if they really are.’ At what point do we conclude they’re doing this in order to produce a reaction?”
Later, another guest, commentator Jason Whitlock, agreed with Carlson’s assessment, saying, “They are agitating for unrest, that’s the only way to interpret this.”
“I’m ready for whatever’s next, and I hope every other man out there watching this show — I hope you’re ready for whatever’s next,” Whitlock added later. “If that’s what they want, let’s get to it.”
“It feels like this is not the behavior of people who want the current system to continue,” Carlson responded. Whitlock concluded his appearance by referring to “elites,” saying “they are the devils, they’re the ones that don’t believe in God.”
“Jason Whitlock, I agree, thank you very much,” Carlson responded.
Carlson’s guest, right-wing activist Ned Ryun, also warned that America was headed for a “one-party state and authoritarian government” and urged Republicans to take up a policy of “mutually assured destruction” against Democrats, whom he accused of “launching nukes at us.”
“Probably not the best time to give up your AR-15, and I think most people know that,” Carlson commented after Ryun’s spiel.
Carlson hyped up the possibility of impending armed conflict for his entire show. Noting the recent mass shooting in Nashville, Tennessee, and Donald Trump’s indictment, Carlson had earlier asked a guest, “It almost feels like they're pushing the population to react. ‘We think they’re demoralized and passive, let's see if they really are.’ At what point do we conclude they’re doing this in order to produce a reaction?”
Later, another guest, commentator Jason Whitlock, agreed with Carlson’s assessment, saying, “They are agitating for unrest, that’s the only way to interpret this.”
“I’m ready for whatever’s next, and I hope every other man out there watching this show — I hope you’re ready for whatever’s next,” Whitlock added later. “If that’s what they want, let’s get to it.”
“It feels like this is not the behavior of people who want the current system to continue,” Carlson responded. Whitlock concluded his appearance by referring to “elites,” saying “they are the devils, they’re the ones that don’t believe in God.”
“Jason Whitlock, I agree, thank you very much,” Carlson responded.
What Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg Is Up Against
Now that the indictment is in, Bragg faces a slew of challenges as he charges a former president in connection to a federal campaign finance crime.
Read an explainer from HuffPost's Paul Blumenthal for a look at what challenges might come next.
Read an explainer from HuffPost's Paul Blumenthal for a look at what challenges might come next.
Schumer Speaks Out
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called for people on both sides of the aisle to let the legal process play out without meddling, saying that Trump is “subject to the same laws as every American.”
Trump To Turn Himself In On Tuesday, NYT Reports
The New York Times reported that Trump is set to turn himself over to authorities on Tuesday, citing one of his attorneys, Susan R. Necheles.
Trump's GOP Allies Are Melting Down Over His Indictment
As expected, top Republican leaders and some of the party’s most loyal Trump allies jumped to his defense following the indictment. Some of the most extreme reactions accused Democrats of “killing America” and “weaponizing government” to attack the former president, while others said they planned to hold Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg accountable for launching the investigation. See what else they had to say:
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Calls Trump Indictment 'Un-American' And Attacks Manhattan DA
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) described the indictment of Trump as “un-American” and called it the “weaponization of the legal system to advance a political agenda turns the rule of law on its head.”
The potential 2024 presidential candidate also jumped at the opportunity to criticize Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, claiming that he consistently bent the law to “downgrade felonies and to excuse criminal misconduct,” but by indicting Trump is “stretching the law to target a political opponent.”
“Florida will not assist in an extradition request given the questionable circumstances at issue with this Soros-backed Manhattan prosecutor and his political agenda,” he wrote.
The potential 2024 presidential candidate also jumped at the opportunity to criticize Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, claiming that he consistently bent the law to “downgrade felonies and to excuse criminal misconduct,” but by indicting Trump is “stretching the law to target a political opponent.”
“Florida will not assist in an extradition request given the questionable circumstances at issue with this Soros-backed Manhattan prosecutor and his political agenda,” he wrote.
Fox Host Can't Stop Making Fat Jokes About Manhattan DA
Editorializing that the indictment was the result of a politically corrupt prosecutor, Fox News host Jesse Watters keeps making jokes about the weight of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
After spotting footage of Bragg — who he claimed had been nicknamed "Fat Alvin" —entering a vehicle, Watters commented, “We see Bragg, he’s the big one, just got into the SUV there, no statement, nothing. He’ll probably go home and eat.”
Later, Watters expressed astonishment that Bragg “indicted a former president and then he left for dinner and didn’t say a word.”
A few minutes after that, Watters snarked, “Bragg’s not holding something behind his back unless it's a sandwich.”
After spotting footage of Bragg — who he claimed had been nicknamed "Fat Alvin" —entering a vehicle, Watters commented, “We see Bragg, he’s the big one, just got into the SUV there, no statement, nothing. He’ll probably go home and eat.”
Later, Watters expressed astonishment that Bragg “indicted a former president and then he left for dinner and didn’t say a word.”
A few minutes after that, Watters snarked, “Bragg’s not holding something behind his back unless it's a sandwich.”
Key Things To Know So Far…
In case you’re just joining us, here are the basics:
- A Manhattan grand jury has indicted Trump in connection with a $130,000 hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels, who says she received the money in the final months of the 2016 election to keep quiet about an alleged affair with the former president.
- Trump has released two statements reacting to the news. He claims Democrats have “lied, cheated and stolen in their obsession” with prosecuting him.
- Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney overseeing the investigation into Trump, said his office is in touch with Trump’s attorney to coordinate his surrender.
Trump’s Arrest Could Happen By Next Week
The former president is expected to surrender to Manhattan authorities next week, his attorney Joe Tacopina confirmed to NBC News.
Citing two anonymous sources, NBC News reported that Trump would be arraigned next week as well. According to ABC News, his arraignment could happen as soon as Tuesday.
Tacopina previously confirmed to Insider that Trump would “follow normal procedure” if indicted.
Citing two anonymous sources, NBC News reported that Trump would be arraigned next week as well. According to ABC News, his arraignment could happen as soon as Tuesday.
Tacopina previously confirmed to Insider that Trump would “follow normal procedure” if indicted.
Eric Trump Takes Dig At Manhattan Grand Jury And District Attorney Alvin Bragg
In response to his father’s indictment, Eric Trump took aim at the Manhattan grand jury and District Attorney Alvin Bragg, labeling the move to indict the former president as a “third world prosecutorial misconduct.”
He added: “It is the opportunistic targeting of a political opponent in a campaign year.”
He added: “It is the opportunistic targeting of a political opponent in a campaign year.”
Authorities Working To Coordinate Trump's Surrender
A spokesperson for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said in a statement: “This evening we contacted Mr. Trump’s attorney to coordinate his surrender to the Manhattan D.A.’s Office for arraignment on a Supreme Court indictment, which remains under seal. Guidance will be provided when the arraignment date is selected."
Earlier this month, news outlets reported that various law enforcement agencies were hammering out logistical details for Trump's surrender, a process that would involve his Secret Service detail. According to The New York Times, Trump will be fingerprinted, photographed and possibly handcuffed upon his arrest.
Earlier this month, news outlets reported that various law enforcement agencies were hammering out logistical details for Trump's surrender, a process that would involve his Secret Service detail. According to The New York Times, Trump will be fingerprinted, photographed and possibly handcuffed upon his arrest.
Stormy Daniels Tweets 2-Word Response About Trump's Indictment
Stormy Daniels tweeted a two-word response to the recent news of Trump's indictment.
"Thank you," she wrote.
"Thank you," she wrote.
Trump Has Been ‘INDICATED’
Trump added to an earlier, more measured statement in a post to Truth Social written in characteristic all-caps.
“These Thugs and Radical Left Monsters have just INDICATED the 45th President of the United States of America, and the leading Republican Candidate, by far, for the 2024 Nomination for President,” he wrote, misspelling “indicted.”
“These Thugs and Radical Left Monsters have just INDICATED the 45th President of the United States of America, and the leading Republican Candidate, by far, for the 2024 Nomination for President,” he wrote, misspelling “indicted.”
Mike Pence Anticipated To Reject Trump Indictment
Just hours after Trump’s indictment, CNN will air its primetime interview with former Vice President Mike Pence. The public is likely anticipating Pence’s reaction, given he is setting himself up to be Trump’s 2024 rival.
While the former vice president has been increasingly critical of his ex-political partner, Pence previously said that indicting Trump would be troubling “in what appears to be a politically charged environment in New York where the attorney general and other elected officials literally campaigned on a pledge to prosecute the former president.”
While the former vice president has been increasingly critical of his ex-political partner, Pence previously said that indicting Trump would be troubling “in what appears to be a politically charged environment in New York where the attorney general and other elected officials literally campaigned on a pledge to prosecute the former president.”
The Democratic National Committee Reacts
The Democratic National Committee issued a statement in response to Trump's indictment, noting that regardless of the outcome, it remains clear that the Republican Party is under Trump's grip.
“No matter what happens in Trump’s upcoming legal proceedings, it’s obvious the Republican Party remains firmly in the hold of Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans," DNC national press secretary Ammar Moussa said in the statement, per NBC News.
"We will continue to hold Trump and all Republican candidates accountable for the extreme MAGA agenda that includes banning abortion, cutting Social Security and Medicare, and undermining free and fair elections.”
“No matter what happens in Trump’s upcoming legal proceedings, it’s obvious the Republican Party remains firmly in the hold of Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans," DNC national press secretary Ammar Moussa said in the statement, per NBC News.
"We will continue to hold Trump and all Republican candidates accountable for the extreme MAGA agenda that includes banning abortion, cutting Social Security and Medicare, and undermining free and fair elections.”
Trump's Already Fundraising Off This
Trump's 2024 campaign is already trying to use his indictment to its advantage, sending an email asking for donations hours after the news broke.
Citing part of the statement he released earlier, the email looks like a letter from Trump and asks for funds "to defend our movement from the never-ending witch hunts and WIN the WHITE HOUSE in 2024 – for 1,500% impact."
Citing part of the statement he released earlier, the email looks like a letter from Trump and asks for funds "to defend our movement from the never-ending witch hunts and WIN the WHITE HOUSE in 2024 – for 1,500% impact."
Exonerated Central Park 5 Member Calls Trump’s Indictment ‘Karma’
Trump’s indictment has caught the eye of one of the members of the exonerated Central Park Five. Trump previously called for the group, who were wrongfully accused of rape and murder as teenagers, to be sentenced to death.
“Karma,” Yusef Salaam, a New York City council candidate and one of the five exonerated men, said in a statement Thursday about Trump’s indictment.
“Karma,” Yusef Salaam, a New York City council candidate and one of the five exonerated men, said in a statement Thursday about Trump’s indictment.
Donald Trump Jr. Calls Dad's Indictment 'Communist-Level S**t'
Donald Trump Jr. called his father's indictment “communist-level s**t” during an angry rant on his live program “Triggered.”
“Let’s be clear, folks, this is communist-level shit,” he said. “This is stuff that would make Mao, Stalin, Pol Pot, it would make them blush, it’s so flagrant, it’s so crazed.”
Trump Jr. said the indictment “hinges on a disgraced, jailed and disbarred clown lawyer Michael Cohen, along with a really shaky, murky legal theory surrounding finance law.”
Cohen was “disgraced, jailed and disbarred” over his role in helping former President Donald Trump cover up payments to porn star Stormy Daniels.
“Let’s be clear, folks, this is communist-level shit,” he said. “This is stuff that would make Mao, Stalin, Pol Pot, it would make them blush, it’s so flagrant, it’s so crazed.”
Trump Jr. said the indictment “hinges on a disgraced, jailed and disbarred clown lawyer Michael Cohen, along with a really shaky, murky legal theory surrounding finance law.”
Cohen was “disgraced, jailed and disbarred” over his role in helping former President Donald Trump cover up payments to porn star Stormy Daniels.
Trump Reacts
Trump has already released a statement on the news of his indictment, calling it "Political Persecution and Election Interference at the highest level in history."
“I believe this Witch-Hunt will backfire massively on Joe Biden," Trump said.
"The American people realize exactly what the Radical Left Democrats are doing here. Everyone can see it. So our Movement, and our Party - united and strong - will first defeat Alvin Bragg, and then we will defeat Joe Biden, and we are going to throw every last one of these Crooked Democrats out of office so we can MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" he added, referencing the Manhattan district attorney.
“I believe this Witch-Hunt will backfire massively on Joe Biden," Trump said.
"The American people realize exactly what the Radical Left Democrats are doing here. Everyone can see it. So our Movement, and our Party - united and strong - will first defeat Alvin Bragg, and then we will defeat Joe Biden, and we are going to throw every last one of these Crooked Democrats out of office so we can MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" he added, referencing the Manhattan district attorney.
NY Grand Jury Votes To Indict Trump
Former President Donald Trump, already under multiple criminal investigations for his coup attempt, has been indicted by a Manhattan grand jury for his role in a $130,000 hush money payment to a porn star in the days before the 2016 election.