Statement of Third Way’s Matt Bennett on the New York Times Story Today

“In today’s New York Times, I am quoted saying that Donald Trump should not be “martyred” by a prosecution for his crimes. Seeing it in print, it is clear that I spoke far too glibly and too broadly, and it doesn’t reflect my view or that of Third Way. We believe that this nation must address this matter directly and forcefully, regardless of the politics, as we sift through the wreckage of our worst-ever president.

“Let me be clear: Donald Trump and his Republican enablers have debased their offices and themselves. They have fomented a violent insurrection against the United States, which is one of the gravest crimes that an elected official can commit. The 132 Members of Congress who supported the coup should be turned out of office. Those in the mob that attacked the Capitol and the people in it should go to jail. And Trump should face consequences when he finally is removed, one way or the other.

“Trump’s criminal behavior as President did not begin on January 6. He has bent or broken the law throughout his presidency. He should have been removed by impeachment long ago, should be impeached again and removed for his leading role in sedition, and he must face justice when he leaves office. If state or federal prosecutors find that he has committed criminal offenses, he should be prosecuted. No one is above the law, and America cannot simply sweep under the rug the abhorrent behavior of a criminal president.

“President-elect Biden has made clear that such prosecutorial decisions will be kept away from the White House, as they must to preserve our system of justice. And he understands that keeping a spotlight on Donald Trump is not what he was elected to do. Trump must not be exonerated of his crimes, and they must not be ignored. We have to be able to do this while not diverting our focus from addressing the cascade of crises in public health, the economy, racial justice, and climate change that threatens America and Americans.”