Donald Trump says he would go to jail for free speech rights but stops short of gag order
USA TodayApr 19
Debate Ensues Over Trump's 'You Won't Have to Vote Anymore' Comment
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The Facts
Former Pres. Donald Trump last Friday in a speech to Christian supporters said that if they voted to re-elect him this year, after "four more years" they "won't have to do it anymore," sparking debate over what the 2024 Republican presidential candidate meant.
Trump also said, "We’ll have it fixed so good you’re not going to have to vote." His campaign later said his comments were "about uniting this country and bringing prosperity to every American."
The Spin
Democratic narrative
History tells us Trump has at different times claimed he would act like a dictator on "day one" of a second term, staged a coup to remain in power, and expressed other autocratic sentiments. Clearly, he was telling his Christian supporters this could be their last election if he returns to the White House.
Republican narrative
Anyone being honest knows Trump was using figurative and joking language. His statements clearly were meant to say that if he's re-elected, his administration will be so successful that Americans won't feel the existential need to focus on politics. Even former Biden officials openly acknowledge this.