Former National Security Adviser John Bolton recently discussed the ongoing jury deliberations in former President Trump’s criminal hush money case, expressing concerns that a guilty verdict could damage Trump’s support among independent voters.
In an interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, Bolton remarked, “I don’t think a conviction, even in a Manhattan courtroom, helps anybody. He will still be, potentially, a convicted felon at that point. I think a lot of independent voters, they may say, ‘That’s the end of it for us.’”
While acknowledging that a guilty verdict might energize Trump’s core supporters, Bolton emphasized, “it’s not a good look to be convicted under any circumstances.”
The jury has entered its second day of deliberations, and a verdict could come at any time. A recent poll shows that more than two-thirds of voters would not change their vote based on a guilty verdict, with 67% stating it would not affect their decision and 17% saying they would be less likely to vote for Trump.
Trump is required to remain at the courthouse during the deliberations, as he and his legal team might be needed if a verdict is reached.
Bolton speculated that the waiting process is “driving Trump crazy” and is nerve-wracking for everyone involved. He noted that Trump is likely preparing for any possible outcome, highlighting the unique challenge of facing this trial in the midst of an election campaign.
“The difference between this and other prior cases for Trump that threatened him and his future is this time, he’s in the middle of an election campaign. So, he’s got a particular target. And that’s Joe Biden,” Bolton said.
Bolton added that Trump’s campaign is working to keep his focus on defeating Biden in the upcoming general election. In his view, Bolton believes the trial could result in a hung jury but acknowledged that a conviction “is possible.”