Atlanta, GA – As the criminal prosecution of a former American president unfolds, a recent poll reveals that only 13% of Americans believe Donald Trump is being treated like any other criminal defendant. The nation appears divided, with 34% feeling he is being handled more harshly, and another 34% perceiving a more lenient treatment.
The CNN poll, conducted by SSRS, commenced shortly after the commencement of the trial’s jury selection on April 15. Surprisingly, only 44% of respondents express faith in the jury’s ability to deliver a fair verdict, while the majority, 56%, doubt a just outcome. Opinions on Trump’s conduct during the trial appear split, with 42% viewing it as inappropriate, 25% as appropriate, and the remaining unsure due to insufficient information.
Meanwhile, public sentiment regarding the charges related to falsifying business records to conceal payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election has shifted. Currently, 45% of respondents believe these charges are irrelevant to Trump’s fitness for the presidency, compared to 39% last summer. This shift comes as Trump faces increased support from voters, with three-quarters of those supporting him in the 2024 election pledging to stand by him even if convicted of a crime.
It is evident from the poll’s findings that public perception of Trump’s trial is heavily influenced by political affiliations, with a significant portion of Trump’s backers indicating they would continue to support him even in the event of a conviction. This unwavering loyalty underscores the deep divide within American society when it comes to evaluating Trump’s actions and their implications on his suitability for office.