New York Times political correspondent Maggie Haberman said she believes retribution against his political enemies is “very much a focal point” for former President Trump, whom she covers extensively, following his conviction in the Manhattan hush money case.
CNN’s Phil Mattingly questioned Haberman Friday on Trump’s likely state of mind after he was found guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016 to buy her silence over an alleged past affair, which he denies.
Haberman suggested that Trump is likely serious about the “revenge tour” being pushed by many of his allies.
“It’s very much a focal point for him right now,” she told Mattingly.
Haberman cited two interviews in which Trump was “explicit” about his desire for revenge, including a recent interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity and his interview Thursday with Dr. Phil McGraw.
“He does want to see retribution,” she said. “He is not in a happy place.”
Trump made comments suggesting he would be seeking retribution during his interview with the host of the TV show “Dr. Phil.”
“Well, revenge does take time, I will say that,” he said. “And sometimes revenge can be justified, Phil, I have to be honest. Sometimes it can.”
Trump has publicly crusaded against the Manhattan hush money trial and the judge overseeing the case since being found guilty, alleging election interference and attempting to place blame on the Biden administration.
He has suggested he would be justified in targeting his political opponents if he wins the White House in November. It is a threat that has some Democrats in Congress worried about another spasm of violence after the election — reminiscent of what happened after the 2020 election was called.
