Allies of McConnell Refrain from Commenting on Support for Trump if Convicted

Republican allies of Sen. Mitch McConnell remained silent when questioned about their support for Donald Trump in the event of a guilty verdict in his Manhattan hush money trial.

“We’ll see how the trial comes out. I’m not weighing in on that,” said Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., told CNN.

“We’re still dealing with the policy issues here at the end of the day,” added Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla.

“We’re still dealing with what’s best for our economy, how do we deal with immigration, and all the policy issues.”

When pressed about “character and being a convicted felon” if Trump is found guilty, Lankford responded: “I’ve said often that I want to be able to have people that are role models and leaders and all those things as well. For me, the policy issues are going to matter significantly.”

Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., expressed his belief that Trump may be convicted but expects the charges to be thrown out.

Many GOP lawmakers have dismissed the charges in the case as unsubstantiated, including various senators and representatives listed in the content.

Trump’s trial reached a new phase with closing arguments expected on May 28 as testimony concluded without the former president taking the stand.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.