Understanding American Sentiment on Trump’s Legal Troubles and Election Legitimacy

A significant majority of Americans believe that former President Trump acted unlawfully in various matters, with a striking frustration surrounding his actions during and after the 2020 election. Approximately 53% of respondents in a recent survey assert that President Biden rightfully won the election, while Trump’s approval rating has plummeted to a mere 35%. This data highlights a growing division in public opinion, revealing not only concerns regarding Trump’s conduct but also a commitment to the electoral process as a cornerstone of American democracy.

The AP reported on their ballot:

The survey conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, prior to recent developments in the Georgia case, indicates that around half of Americans—53%—support the Justice Department’s decision to indict Trump for his attempts to remain in power despite losing the 2020 election.

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Overall, 35% of Americans view Trump positively while a substantial 62% have a negative impression of him. However, within the Republican Party, approximately 70% of members hold a favorable view of the former president, with nearly 60% expressing a desire for him to run for president again in the upcoming election.

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A large portion of the American populace disagrees with Trump’s assertion that the 2020 election was stolen. About 70% believe that Biden was legally elected president, a sentiment consistent with the previous year’s findings. In stark contrast, among Republicans, 57% claim Biden’s election was fraudulent, compared to only 32% of independents and a mere 2% of Democrats.

Trump’s legal challenges resonate with a majority of Americans, reflecting a stark unpopularity for Trump himself. His claims regarding the alleged theft of the 2020 election have not garnered support, and they rank among the least favorable opinions among the public. The narrative that Joe Biden is not the legitimate president is even less well-received, indicating a substantial disconnect with the broader electorate.

The Republican Party seems to be undergoing a transformation. It appears to have morphed into what some are referring to as the Trump party, characterized by a minority rule that seeks to consolidate power while undermining democratic principles. This shift raises concerns about the party’s commitment to traditional values and governance.

Recent polling suggesting Trump could secure 40% of the general election vote may inflate his actual support. This figure merely reflects Trump’s starting point before Democrats mobilize their voter base against him, which historically tends to increase turnout in opposition to him and other Republican candidates.

The data from the AP indicates that the Republican Party might be setting itself up for significant challenges ahead. Trump’s ability to galvanize Democratic voters against him has proven effective in past elections. Although it is still early to draw definitive conclusions, it’s clear that the GOP risks placing itself in a precarious position if they persist with Trump as their candidate for the 2024 presidential race.