Donald Trump amplifies outrage as indictment shakes Presidential race

Greensboro, United States: Former President Donald Trump took center stage on Saturday, vehemently criticizing the "corrupt" US justice system in the aftermath of being indicted on multiple felony charges by federal prosecutors. The indictment, released on Friday, focuses on Trump's alleged mishandling of classified materials and presents a more significant legal challenge than the personal, political, and commercial misconduct charges he has previously faced.

The indictment not only sets the stage for a unique White House race but also underscores President Joe Biden's Department of Justice's pursuit of prosecuting the clear frontrunner for the Republican nomination.

Trump addressed two state Republican conventions, starting with Georgia and then North Carolina, passionately denouncing what he considers an unjust legal assault against him.

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"You're dealing with crazy lunatics," Trump exclaimed during his appearance in Greensboro, North Carolina.

He further stated, "The baseless indictment of me by the Biden administration's weaponized Department of Injustice will go down as one of the most horrific abuses of power in our country's history."

Earlier in Columbus, Georgia, Trump told the crowd that he was being targeted in court because he intended to run for a second term in the White House.

"If I wasn't running, there would be no witch hunt, there would be no indictment," he reassured his supporters.

These events occurred just days before Trump's scheduled appearance in a federal court in Miami to respond to charges of willfully endangering US national security by retaining classified defense information, conspiring to obstruct justice, corruptly concealing documents, and making false statements. Each charge, brought by Justice Department Special Counsel Jack Smith, carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

In response to the indictment, Trump has already taken to his Truth Social platform and released a video statement, branding Smith as "deranged" and a "Trump hater." He framed the prosecution as election interference orchestrated by Biden and his campaign.

"They come after me because now we're leading in the polls again by a lot against Biden," Trump claimed.

Thus far, many Republicans, including some of Trump's rivals for the party's nomination, have rallied behind the former president, amplifying his outrage.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy, who has had a turbulent relationship with Trump, deemed the indictment a "dark day" for the United States. He expressed his unwavering support by stating, "I, and every American who believes in the rule of law, stand with President Trump."

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, seen as Trump's most viable challenger for the Republican nomination, echoed the claims of a "weaponized" Justice Department, further intensifying the political climate surrounding the indictment.

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- With inputs from agencies

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