SPOKANE, Wash. – Donald Trump became the first former president who is also a convicted felon on Thursday. A flurry of reactions from Washington lawmakers and candidates hit social media after the verdict was announced.
Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Bob Ferguson hailed the verdict as a win for law and order on social media.
“Laws matter in this country. Dave Reichert’s candidate for president just got convicted of 34 felonies. I’m running for Governor to uphold the law. America must not elect a convicted felon for president,” Ferguson said.
Trump’s conviction for falsifying business records drew wide condemnation from Republicans across the northwest, who argued that the trial failed to meet the standard of judicial independence. Gubernatorial candidate Semi Bird said that the verdict was similar to attacks he claims he’s faced.
“The endless attacks against President Trump, both civil and criminal, have been targeted and specific to one purpose and one purpose only. To remove him from the presidential race. In Washington State, we’re seeing the same type of Saul Alinsy election interference attacks against our campaign,” Bird said.
Congressional candidates used the ruling as an opportunity to express their loyalty to or aversion towards Trump depending on their political affiliation.
US congressional candidate Tiffany Smiley (R) said that her support for the former president was unchanged by the verdict.
“This trial against President Trump has always been politically motivated, and the American people have been clear – it’s not going to change their support,” Smiley said.
US congressional candidate Jerrod Sessler (R) took a similar stance.
“This is a sad day in the history of America. The illegitimate Biden administration has rigged the American judicial system against President Trump with bogus cases handled by corrupt DAs and judges,” Sessler said.
Idaho Governor Brad Little (R) also affirmed his support for Trump, and implied that the ruling will not change his election chances.
“The American people will deliver the only verdict that matters in November,” Little said.
There is no evidence that the ruling, which happened in New York court, was influenced in any way by President Biden or his campaign.
NonStop Local will monitor reactions from lawmakers and candidates throughout Thursday. Check back here for updates.
