WASHINGTON: Donald Trump has compared himself with South African anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela, sparking quick and virulent criticism from President Joe Biden’s campaign team.

Mr Trump, 77, has been indicted in four different criminal cases, all of which could end in jail time for the billionaire former president.

In one of those cases, he stands accused of paying hush money to a former porn star before winning the 2016 presidential election.

That trial is set to begin next Monday, and judge Juan Merchan has imposed a partial gag order on Mr Trump, who has frequently attacked the judge on social media.

On Saturday, the former real estate mogul let loose on his Truth Social platform, accusing Judge Merchan of infringing upon his First Amendment rights to free speech and expression.

“If this Partisan Hack wants to put me in the ‘clink’ for speaking the open and obvious TRUTH, I will gladly become a Modern Day Nelson Mandela – It will be my GREAT HONOR,” Mr Trump wrote. Mandela spent 27 years in prison before being released and eventually serving as South Africa’s president.

Mr Trump previously compared himself to Mandela at a 2023 rally, and has also likened himself to Jesus Christ.

Mr Biden’s campaign team quickly went on the offensive.

“Imagine being so self-centered that you compare yourself to Jesus Christ and Nelson Mandela all within the span of little more than a week: that’s Donald Trump for you,” Team Biden said.

AFP