Editorial: The New York Times

• Donald Trump, former President of the United States, is on trial in Manhattan, marking the first time a President elected to the nation has faced criminal prosecution.
• He enjoys the same protections and guarantees of justice that he sought to deny during his term.
• He has portrayed the prosecution as politically motivated, but the case is fact-based.
• The legal process exemplifies that the rule of law applies to everyone equally and that its enforcement is vital to democracy.
• Trump has made use of the legal system for his benefit and has expressed a desire to control it further if re-elected.
• He has shown a readiness to pursue his political enemies without regard to evidence or facts.
• The former President has consistently displayed disrespect for the courts and due process.

Conclusion: It is crucial for the United States to consider not only Trump’s actions, but also his disregard for the rule of law and his willingness to demean American justice when it suits his interest.

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