Impeachment and After: What Trump Could Lose and Gain

When we discuss the outcome of Donald Trump's impeachment trial, it is crucial to consider the broader implications and the various dimensions of his potential demise. This includes the symbolic and political elements following such a significant event. One of the significant expectations associated with Trump losing an impeachment trial is the lack of a traditional presidential funeral, particularly the one that might have implied significant esteem and respect he seeks to maintain. Failing to lie in state at the Capitol Building signifies a severance from the symbolic power and adoration usually accorded to former presidents.

What Could Trump Lose as a Result of His Impeachment Trial?

At the outset, it might appear that Trump had very little to lose from a failed impeachment trial. After all, the main objective of the last-minute impeachment was to prevent him from running for the 2024 presidential election. However, the psychological and symbolic impact of an impeachment trial is profound. It serves as a public indictment, overshadowing his governance, leadership, and moral authority.

Legislative Consequences: There is legislation proposed that would strip a convicted felon of certain presidential retirement benefits. While this measure would not directly affect Trump, it sets a precedent and signals the ongoing scrutiny and potential punitive measures against him. Politically, this could weaken his supporters and erode his influence.

Media Warfare and Public Perception: The intense media scrutiny accompanying the impeachment trial would continue for years. While this might seem like a negative outcome, for Trump, it can also be a double-edged sword. Trump thrives on controversy, and such prolonged media attention often only reinforces his self-proclaimed narrative of being under attack. This perpetuates narratives that play into his political base and enhances the sense of a struggle against an establishment that he claims to oppose.

The Rhetoric of the “Rigged Election” and Its Implications

The central issue of the upcoming impeachment trial is the debate over the "rigged election." This phrase, often employed by Trump, is rooted in a deeper understanding of the perceived selectivity of presidential lineages. The theory suggests that only a specific aristocratic lineage can claim the presidency, which explains why Hillary Clinton lost the election despite her high poll numbers.

Historical Context: The book "Jonathan POTUS Cousins: The Interrelated Kinship of American Presidents" (ISBN: 9781542328777) delves into this concept. It suggests that the American presidential lineage has a particular kinship structure, where certain families consistently hold power, while others struggle. This idea of a "zero-year curse" essentially means that the vice president, in this case, Kamala Harris, would take over as president, breaking the cycle of a specific lineage of presidents.

Impact on Trump's Legacy: The "Rigged Election" narrative serves to unite Trump's base and strengthen his rhetoric. It creates a narrative where he is fighting for a core principle of democratization in the presidential process. If Trump were to face impeachment, the "Rigged Election" argument can be weaponized as part of his defense, implying that his losses are due to an unspoken aristocratic structure rather than any wrongdoing of his own.

Strategic Gains from Impeachment

Albeit symbolic, the impeachment trial can be seen as a strategic win for Trump. The more he is attacked, the stronger his base becomes. His ability to rally his supporters with a narrative of persecution and betrayal amplifies his political standing. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "Trump effect," is exactly the kind of tactical advantage Trump seeks to capitalize on.

Political Legacy: The impeachment process can serve as a means to further solidify Trump's legacy as a leader who battles against entrenched interests. The media’s portrayal and the ongoing investigations could position him as a champion of the people, fighting against an elitist establishment. This narrative could be powerful in 2024 and beyond, reinforcing his claim to the presidency.

Continued Resilience: Despite the potential for reputational damage, Trump’s refusal to acknowledge any wrongdoing or to let the impeachment process take its course ensures that he remains a formidable political figure. His resilience in the face of adversity, coupled with the ongoing investigations, maintains the idea of a larger, political struggle rather than a mere legal issue.

Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, while Donald Trump may lose the symbolic aspects of a presidential funeral, the impeachment trial itself could serve as a strategic win, enhancing his political standing and further entrenching the "Rigged Election" narrative. The continuation of investigations and media scrutiny ensures that his issues remain in the public eye, providing a platform for his supporters to rally behind him. Politically, the impeachment trial cements his image as a champion of the marginalized and a fighter against an establishment that he believes has manipulated the system.

As we reflect on the implications of the impeachment trial, it becomes clear that the ramifications extend far beyond the immediate consequences of his actions. The lasting impact on the political landscape, the psyche of his supporters, and the broader narrative of American democracy are all key factors to consider.