Former White House counsel John Dean, who was a key figure in the Watergate scandal, has commented on the recent decision by Maine to bar former President Donald Trump from running for office in 2024. Dean said that this move shows that Trump is facing serious legal and political challenges that could end his political career.
Dean, who served under President Richard Nixon and later testified against him, said that Maine’s action is unprecedented and could have a domino effect on other states. He said that Trump is in trouble not only because of his role in inciting the January 6th Capitol riot, but also because of his numerous lawsuits and investigations.
“Maine has done something that no state has ever done before. They have removed a former president from the ballot for the next presidential election. This is a clear sign that Trump is in deep trouble. He is not only facing criminal charges for his involvement in the insurrection, but also civil suits from his creditors, his former associates, and his victims. He is also facing scrutiny from Congress and state authorities for his tax evasion, his abuse of power, and his obstruction of justice. Trump is running out of options and allies. He is becoming a pariah in American politics,” CNN quoted Dean saying.
Dean added that Maine’s decision could influence other states to follow suit and prevent Trump from running again. He said that this would be a major blow to Trump’s ego and his base, who still believe that he won the 2020 election and that he can reclaim the White House in 2024.
“Maine is not a big state, but it could have a big impact. If other states join Maine and ban Trump from the ballot, it would effectively end his chances of running again. It would also send a message to his supporters that he is not the leader they think he is. He is a disgraced and defeated former president who has no future in American politics. He is a threat to democracy and the rule of law. He should be held accountable for his crimes and his lies,” Dean said.
