December 17, 2024 09:00am PST
(PenniesToSave.com) – A New York judge has rejected former President Donald Trump’s attempt to dismiss his conviction related to falsifying business records tied to hush money payments. Trump’s legal team argued that a recent Supreme Court decision affirming presidential immunity for official acts should apply. However, the judge ruled the case involved personal actions, not presidential duties, and therefore immunity did not apply.
At the same time, President Joe Biden’s controversial pardon of his son Hunter Biden has raised questions about fairness, accountability, and trust in the justice system. For the average American, these cases bring a critical issue to the forefront: Does the law apply equally to everyone, or does political power create double standards?
Trump’s Conviction and Immunity Claim
In May 2024, Donald Trump was convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records. The charges stemmed from alleged hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election. Trump’s team sought to have the conviction thrown out following a recent Supreme Court ruling that presidents cannot be prosecuted for official acts taken during their time in office.
Trump’s lawyers argued that the payment and resulting records were connected to his 2016 candidacy, blurring the line between personal actions and official political duties. However, Judge Juan Merchan rejected this claim, ruling that Trump’s actions were entirely personal and not protected by presidential immunity.
The decision highlights a clear distinction between official acts, which are protected under the new Supreme Court precedent, and private actions, which remain subject to legal scrutiny.
Hunter Biden’s Pardon and the Double Standard
While Trump’s conviction moves forward, President Joe Biden’s recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, has sparked outrage and raised critical questions about equal justice. Hunter Biden faced ongoing investigations into federal tax fraud and alleged financial misconduct tied to his overseas business dealings. The pardon effectively shields him from further prosecution, offering blanket immunity for federal offenses.
Critics argue the pardon exposes a glaring double standard. While Trump faces legal battles for personal actions, Hunter Biden is now immune from consequences due to his father’s executive power. For average Americans, this creates a perception that the politically connected can escape accountability while others are held to a stricter standard.
What This Means for the Average American
Equal Justice Under the Law
The judge’s ruling against Trump reinforces a critical principle: No one is above the law, not even a former president. It sets a precedent that personal actions—no matter how powerful the individual—can be scrutinized and punished.
In contrast, Hunter Biden’s pardon has shaken faith in this principle. The executive power to pardon has raised concerns about political favoritism and whether justice is truly blind. Many Americans worry that elite individuals and their families can avoid consequences that others would face.
Trust in Institutions
These cases have far-reaching implications for trust in the U.S. justice system. On one hand, Trump’s conviction affirms that legal accountability exists, even at the highest levels of power. On the other hand, Biden’s pardon has led to frustration and skepticism, eroding trust in the fairness of government institutions.
For Americans who already feel disconnected from Washington politics, these events deepen the divide. The justice system works best when it applies equally to everyone, but Hunter Biden’s immunity has raised doubts about whether that ideal is upheld.
Impact on Future Elections
Both Trump’s conviction and Biden’s pardon could influence upcoming elections. Trump’s legal troubles may be a point of criticism, but for his supporters, they are also seen as proof of political persecution. Meanwhile, Biden’s pardon of his son has fueled concerns about corruption and misuse of power, which could weaken support for his administration.
For average Americans, these developments may increase the demand for stronger checks and balances on presidential powers, particularly when it comes to immunity and pardons.
Final Thoughts
The rejection of Trump’s immunity claim and Hunter Biden’s controversial pardon bring two conflicting narratives to light: one of accountability and another of political favoritism. While Trump’s conviction upholds the principle that no one is above the law, Biden’s pardon raises troubling questions about fairness and trust in the justice system.
For the average American, these cases are not just about Trump or Biden—they are about whether the justice system treats all individuals equally, regardless of their power, name, or connections. Moving forward, preserving the integrity of the law will depend on ensuring that accountability applies to everyone, not just to those without political protection.