Biden's Missed Opportunity: The Case for Arresting Trump
In a recent article published in Newsweek, author Roy Rosenfeld argues that President Joe Biden's most significant mistake was not arresting Donald Trump following the events of January 6, 2021. Rosenfeld claims that while Biden's administration has faced criticism for various issues, including border management and the withdrawal from Afghanistan, these pale in comparison to the implications of allowing Trump to remain free after the Capitol insurrection.
Rosenfeld contends that Biden's failure to act immediately undermined the seriousness of Trump's actions and allowed public perception to shift. Instead of being viewed as a clear threat to democracy, Trump's involvement in the insurrection became a matter of debate, leading many to question the legitimacy of the charges against him. The author emphasizes that by not arresting Trump, Biden inadvertently weakened the narrative surrounding the insurrection and emboldened Trump supporters.
The Implications of Biden's Inaction
The article highlights the contradictions in Biden's approach to Trump. While the President has labeled Trump a fascist threat, his administration's decision to leave Trump uncharged has led to skepticism about his culpability. Rosenfeld argues that this inconsistency raises doubts among the public: if Trump was truly guilty of treasonous actions, why was he not held accountable?
Rosenfeld acknowledges that Biden's intentions were rooted in a desire for national healing. However, he posits that prioritizing a strong stance for democracy was essential. By failing to act decisively, Biden missed an opportunity to rally public support against Trumpism, potentially altering the political landscape for years to come.
