Former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly told his aides that he wants to appear in court handcuffed if he is indicted on charges of a 'hush money' scandal involving adult film actress Stormy Daniels, according to a report by the British newspaper The Guardian on the 21st (local time).
According to multiple sources cited by The Guardian, Trump mentioned to his aides that if indicted, he would have to have his fingerprints taken and a mugshot photographed in court, and he discussed turning this into a 'spectacle.'
The Guardian analyzed that there are various reasons why Trump wants to stage such a scenario. Not only would it demonstrate that he is facing an unfair indictment, but it could also solidify his support base ahead of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Trump has already declared his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election.
In particular, Trump is reportedly concerned that appearing remotely or quietly could make him seem weak or defeated. While his legal team has expressed reluctance about such a direct appearance and recommended remote appearances, he rejected this and reportedly said he would not care even if someone shot him (with a gun). Sources said he believes that in such a case, he would become a 'martyr' and could win the election.
However, The Guardian added that it is unclear whether Trump is seriously considering wearing handcuffs.
Meanwhile, Trump is under investigation for allegedly paying $130,000 of company money as a settlement to hide his sexual relationship with Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election and for falsifying company records. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is expected to indict him soon. If indicted, Trump would become the first former or sitting U.S. president in history to face criminal charges.
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