They’re Treating Trump Like A Mobster

Georgia RICO

The RICO prosecution against Donald Trump in Georgia is a significant legal hurdle due to its state-level nature, which prevents a presidential pardon. Ben Shapiro explains that the case, led by Fannie Willis, accuses Trump and 18 others of attempting to alter the 2020 election results through a criminal enterprise, under Georgia's broad RICO statute 1. This law, modeled after the federal RICO Act, allows for a narrative approach to prosecution, encompassing various actions by Trump and his associates. Shapiro notes the challenges Willis faces, including the potential for the case to be moved to federal court, which could benefit Trump by expanding the jury pool 1.

The indictment in Georgia against Trump for racketeering and a dozen other alleged offenses represents the most ambitious and sweeping case brought up against the former president.

--- Ben Shapiro

The implications of using RICO are profound, as it circumvents the need to prove Trump's specific intent, relying instead on his association with a broader criminal organization 2.

   

Accountability

The application of RICO laws to Trump raises questions about legal accountability and potential double standards. Shapiro recalls advocating for RICO's use against politicians, including Barack Obama, suggesting that holding politicians accountable might deter criminal activities 3. He argues that the uneven application of these laws, particularly when partisan prosecutors target political adversaries, undermines justice 4. Shapiro highlights the risk of political prosecutions becoming a tool for partisan battles, warning that this could deter capable individuals from entering politics.

Once you break the glass, the glass is now broken. Now, let's be real about this.

--- Ben Shapiro

The debate centers on whether Trump's actions constitute a criminal enterprise or merely a specious legal strategy, with Willis opting for RICO to bypass proving intent 4.

   

Double Standards

Shapiro exposes perceived double standards in legal prosecutions, contrasting the treatment of Trump with figures like Hillary Clinton. He argues that while Trump's indictments may be justified, they highlight a broader issue of selective justice, where Democrats appear to evade accountability 5. Shapiro criticizes the lack of even application of RICO laws, suggesting that if applied to Trump, they should also target other political figures like Clinton and Obama 6.

If you're going to use Rico to go after Donald Trump, you better damn well use it to go after Hillary Clinton and the Hillary Clinton foundation.

--- Ben Shapiro

This perceived imbalance fuels Republican frustration and skepticism about the fairness of the legal system, as Shapiro calls for consistent enforcement of laws across the political spectrum 6.