As former President Donald Trump arrives in Miami on the eve of his court appearance and reading of charges, law enforcement officials and city residents are preparing for an uncertain scene.
The Miami area is expected to see an influx of Trump supporters this week, as well as those looking to peacefully protest the charges against the former president. Trump has been charged with a total of 37 charges related to the handling of classified documents after he left the White House, making him the first former president of the United States to be charged with federal charges.
“Honestly, we believe in the Constitution. We believe that people should have the right to express themselves. But we also believe in the law and the order, and we hope that tomorrow will be a peaceful day,” said Miami Mayor Francis Suarez in a statement. “We encourage people to remain peaceful to demonstrate how they feel and we are going to have the necessary strength to guarantee that.”
Law enforcement officials have expressed concern about the possible large number of Trump supporters expected to gather for the hearing, and Miami Police Chief Manny Morales has made clear that they are “prepared and ready” to handle any protests or crowds that may develop. Miami police are working with federal, state and local partners to secure the perimeter of the court, and have not issued any permits for protesting.
Trump may be the first former president ever to face federal charges, but supporters of the former president appear to be looking past the legal implications, many hoping to show their support for him in an effort to ensure that he still has a platform from which to make his case to the American people.
Though the city of Miami expects to have a peaceful outcome, tensions have been high in the community. Supporters of the former president’s critics wonder how Trump’s presence will be viewed by those present, as this will be an historic moment in American history. We will soon find out how the former president’s next steps affect his future and that of our country.