Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, who convicted Donald J. Trump, faces backlash from the right after another high-profile case acquittal.
Daniel Penny was acquitted of criminally negligent homicide in a Manhattan courtroom, bringing relief and joy to him and his legal team. The decision sparked online criticism towards the district attorney, Alvin Bragg, from prominent figures such as Vice President-elect JD Vance, Donald Trump Jr., and former Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani. They praised the jury’s decision and condemned Mr. Bragg for charging Mr. Penny, a former Marine.
The backlash against Mr. Bragg intensified as Republicans like Mr. Vance labeled him as “New York’s mob district attorney” and invited Mr. Penny to attend the Army-Navy football game. Despite the criticism, Mr. Bragg, who is Manhattan’s first Black district attorney, stood by his decision, emphasizing that he followed the law and fulfilled his duty regardless of the outcome.
Throughout his tenure, Mr. Bragg has faced backlash for his progressive approach to crime, which began with his prosecution of President-elect Donald J. Trump on 34 felony charges, all of which resulted in convictions. Following the Penny trial, Mr. Bragg reiterated that his office meticulously followed the facts and evidence in every case. However, he highlighted the intense backlash, including hate and threats directed at prosecutors and their families via social media, phone calls, and emails.
In the aftermath of the trial, Mr. Penny’s exoneration has elevated his status among conservative circles, while Mr. Bragg, who is up for re-election next year, continues to navigate the storm of online criticism. Despite the challenges, Mr. Bragg remains steadfast in upholding the law and fulfilling his responsibilities as the district attorney of Manhattan.
Source: The NY Times
