Readers respond to Question of the Week: Is the Donald Trump booking good or bad for us?

A train-wreck booking

If you believe he is guilty of actual crimes, then you must believe Trump’s indictment is a good thing. But the polling shows about three-fourths of Americans think the indictment is nothing but a political ploy, designed to cripple Trump’s bid for the White House. There are many people who believe it is political, but want him indicted anyway. This shows a serious loss in the belief of the rule of law. They just want him in jail because they hate him. How sad. Pundits on both sides of the aisle believe the indictment is based on “Frankenlaw,” a cobbling together of misdemeanors from different jurisdictions to create a felony. The statute of limitations has expired,regardless of the validity of the charges. It is a train wreck — you can’t not look.

— Carol Houghton, Chino

Indictment is necessary

The indictment of twice-impeached, defeated, dangerous, former President Trump is neither good nor bad — it is necessary. For 50 years Trump evaded punishment for his unlawful actions, spewing comments like, “I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody” and not lose a vote. It is likely he “won” the 2016 presidency through unlawful electoral voting (which was thwarted in 2020). The only question is, “Why did it take so long?” Sometimes the very wealthy believe they are not subject to the laws of common folks. This is the opportunity to prove otherwise.

— Lynn Petroff, Temecula

Trump’s booking is good

Mr. D.J. Trump’s indictment on possible illegal payments to cover up his adultery is analogous to crime boss Al Capone’s indictment (and conviction) on federal tax evasion. Like Capone, who could not be convicted of murder, and other egregious crimes, no one has been able to impeach or convict Trump of serious crimes. So it is fair game to stick it to him on this relatively minor issue that has a high chance for conviction. The big picture is to destroy Trump’s political career in order to protect the country from his immoral, dishonest and corrupt behaviors. Republicans are absolutely right when they say Trump is being politically attacked, and should be thankful for it. Of course, some probably died as fans of Capone, and in 2023, some will always like Trump.

— George Chung, Redlands