Pitkin County Republican, Democratic chairs comment on verdict against Trump

Donald Trump has been found guilty on all 34 counts of attempting to influence the 2016 presidential election by falsifying business records to cover up hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. A jury of 12 citizens unanimously convicted the former president on New York State Class E Felony charges.

This conviction marks the first time a former U.S. president has been found guilty of a felony. He still faces additional legal battles, with two federal cases pending in Washington, D.C., and Florida, as well as state charges in Georgia. Potential charges may also arise in Arizona and Michigan.

According to statements made by his most devoted supporters in Congress, many are blaming Pres. Joe Biden and accusing Democrats of politicizing the justice system. Local political reactions in Colorado, particularly in Pitkin County, reflect the broader national divide.

Pitkin County Republican Chair Jon Kelly endorsed Governor Ron DeSantis’ own reaction to the verdict, in which DeSantis stated, “It is often said that no one is above the law, but it is also true that no one is below the law. If the defendant were not Donald Trump, this case would never have been brought, the judge would have never issued similar rulings, and the jury would have never returned a guilty verdict.”

Kelly echoed these sentiments, criticizing the Democrats for what he described as a partisan misuse of the legal system.

“This is the time for all Democrats to decide whether they are patriotic Americans who put their country and our laws first or whether they are simply partisans who are willing to use any means necessary to secure and retain power,” he said.

He also expressed disappointment in Gov. Jared Polis for not denouncing what he called a “nakedly partisan abuse of the legal system.”

In contrast, Pitkin County Democratic Chair Betty Wallach expressed confidence in the judicial process.

“I believe the system worked,” she said. “This is an affirmation that the system still works. I am pleased that 12 American citizens and civilians got some complicated evidence from some very complicated people and decided that this person was guilty on all 34 counts.”

She added, “This is unheard of, that this person, who is a convicted felon, is still a candidate for president. I hope the system continues to work. I am thrilled that we still have a separation of powers in this country.”

Trump has vowed to appeal his conviction; his sentencing date is set for July 11 —  four days ahead of the Republican National Convention.