The political pendulum seems to be swinging in an unexpected direction for former Vice President Mike Pence regarding the indictment of his old boss, former President Donald Trump. Pence, currently a hopeful for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination and a former ally of Trump, has begun to sound a different note on his predecessor’s legal woes.
Initially, Pence was a vocal critic of the idea of Trump facing federal charges, arguing that it could be “terribly divisive to the country” and send a “terrible message to the wider world.” He expressed these views at a CNN town hall in Des Moines, Iowa, back on June 7. Emphasizing America’s image as a beacon of democracy and justice, Pence hoped that the Department of Justice would find a way to avoid indicting a former president.
However, this narrative took a sharp turn when Trump was slapped with a 37-count federal indictment, including charges related to willful retention of national defense information and conspiracy to obstruct justice. In light of the severity of these charges, Pence has found himself unable to continue his defensive stance.
In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board, after reviewing the extensive indictment, Pence stated, “These are very serious allegations, and I can’t defend what is alleged.” He particularly expressed concerns over the potential risks to national security and the lives of American service members due to the alleged mishandling of classified information by Trump.
Despite his change of tone, Pence maintained that Trump “is entitled to his day in court,” and reserved further judgment until Trump has had the chance to defend himself.
Interestingly, this stance comes on the heels of the Department of Justice’s decision not to seek criminal charges against Pence himself. Earlier this year, classified documents were discovered at Pence’s Indiana home, raising eyebrows and questions about potential mishandling of sensitive information.
With Pence’s changing perspective on the Trump indictment, it’s natural to wonder what’s behind the shift. Could it be a strategic move to set himself apart in the party, or does it reveal deeper divisions that have been festering since Pence didn’t back Trump’s call to block the certification of the 2020 election results?
As the drama around Trump’s legal battles continues to unfold, the role that Pence plays in this saga will be watched closely. It’s a gripping narrative of shifting alliances, political maneuvering, and the ever-evolving landscape of American politics.
