In a notable turn of events, several high-ranking Republicans have flocked to the Manhattan criminal courthouse to show their support for former President Donald Trump during his ongoing trial. Among them is House Speaker Mike Johnson, who became the highest-ranking Republican to visit Trump at the courthouse on May 14, 2024. Johnson's appearance marked a significant moment in US politics as he attacked the case against Trump as politically motivated and corrupt.
Johnson has been vocal about his criticisms of the U.S judicial system, using his position to claim that cases against Trump are biased and politically motivated by Democrats. Outside the courthouse, Johnson decried 'this ridiculous prosecution that is not about justice.' He further stated, 'It's all about politics.'
Joining Johnson were several other Republican politicians such as Doug Burgum, North Dakota Gov., Florida Reps. Byron Donalds and Cory Mills, former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville, Florida Sen. Rick Scott, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, and several others.
Trump's allies are visiting the courthouse to lend their voice to Trump as he is under a gag order that bars him from publicly discussing witnesses and cases. Trump faces charges in three other criminal cases, including allegations of mishandling classified material and efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.
Despite Johnson's appearance at the courthouse, some have criticized his actions as a potential distraction from the trial proceedings and a possible attempt to curry favor with Trump. However, Johnson has remained steadfast in his support for Trump and his belief that the case against him is politically motivated.