The Manhattan DA and the Trump Investigation: A Cautious Stance or a Fearful Retreat?
Recently, allegations have resurfaced suggesting that Manhattan District Attorney (DA) Alvin Bragg Jr. may have stalled an investigation into Donald Trump. This article delves into the nuances behind this controversy, exploring the motivations and implications of Bragg's actions.
Background: The Prevalent Fears
Alvlin Bragg Jr., having previously worked on minor cases involving Donald Trump, came into the role of Manhattan DA at a critical juncture. With Cyrus Vance Jr. retiring, the stage was set for a significant legal assault on the former U.S. President. However, under Bragg, the case against Trump was dropped, sparking speculation and anger among several prosecutors.
One of the key fears cited by many is the political and personal intimidation felt by Bragg, leading him to adopt a cautious stance rather than pressing forward. This fear was so pronounced that one could see it as an outright "cowardly" choice, akin to the image of Donald Trump holding a bat ready to strike the DA. Critics characterize Bragg as a "first-class coward" with a "yellow stripe down his back," a phrase derived from accounts of his perceived reluctance to take on a high-profile case.
Case Evolution and Current Scrutiny
One of the most notable shifts in the case involved the Stormy Daniels hush money scenario. Mark Pomerantz and Carey Dunne, two lead prosecutors in the case, ultimately resigned in protest of Bragg's inaction. The original investigation was reportedly on the verge of indictment, but Bragg intervened, advising that the investigation was now on a new, unspecified level.
However, this new status does not necessarily imply an ongoing investigation. A lawyer-turned-fixer named Michael Cohen, who had met with prosecutors and whose communications are legally protected, expressed satisfaction with Bragg's approach. His positive remarks suggest that Cohen, who went to prison due to similar hush money payments, sees potential for further investigation into Trump's affairs.
Additional Concerns and Potential Legal Implications
The reluctance to prosecute Trump also raises questions about potential financial and campaign finance violations. It has been reported that Trump wrote off the Stormy Daniels payment on his taxes, which could lead to tax evasion charges. Furthermore, with the conviction of Alan Weisselberg and pending civil cases involving the Trump Organization, there is concern that Alvin Bragg's actions may stem from a desire to avoid further adverse publicity against the DA's office.
The timing of this shift must be considered in light of the upcoming release of Mark Pomerantz's book, "The People v. Trump: An Inside Account." Pomerantz's detailed insights into the Trump investigation might compel Bragg to take a more aggressive stance to avoid the book potentially embarrassing his office and his leadership.
Conclusion
The stench of fear is palpable, and the alarm bells are ringing. Whether Bragg's caution is rooted in valid concerns or in a desire to avoid the backlash associated with further scrutinizing Trump, his actions have raised eyebrows and concerns. The integrity and implications of these decisions remain subjects of intense scrutiny as the story continues to unfold.