On a President Trump with absolute power

Posted December 10, 2024 12:42 pm

By virtue of its 2024 ruling in Trump v. United States, SCOTUS granted Donald Trump immunity for actions considered to be part of his official presidential duties, a ruling that proved consequential in forestalling DOJ Special Consel Jack Smith’s prosecution of Trump’s multiple federal grand jury indictments (“Special Counsel Drops Trump Cases, Page 1. Nov. 26). The ruling also brought Trump close to holding absolute power, especially so when backed by Elon Musk’s billions of dollars to ward off any legal challenges.

In an 1887 letter, John Dalberg-Acton (1834-1902), better known as Lord Acton, wrote “Power tends to corrupt, absolute power corrupts absolutely” — reflecting his belief that unchecked power poses the greatest threat to human freedom.

Only time will tell the extent of the corruption and its negative consequences to America and the freedom of its people that could stem from a President Trump with absolute power.

Frank G. Splitt

Mount Prospect

Article Comments

Article Categories
Letters to the Editor Opinion

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.