The second day of jury deliberations in former President Donald Trump’s trial in New York City brings the trial closer to an end. The case involves 34 charges of falsifying business records during the 2016 presidential election. Judge Juan Mercan has instructed the jury and, while they have yet to reach a verdict, Americans are watching the trial unfold with interest.

MIG Reports analysis studied recent online discussion and sentiment trends about the trial. Based on public posts, it seems many Americans – including legal experts – are struggling to gain a clear understanding of what the trial is about. State felony criminal charges of falsifying business records with respect to specific invoices, vouchers, and checks, on which the case pivots, are overly complex for many voters. None of the online discussion provides detailed explanations of these charges or the specifics of the case. Instead, conversation focuses on broader political narratives and accusations of corruption.

The lack of depth in discussion suggests people are less engaged with the actual content of the trial, and more reactive to media narratives about it. Most of the discussion around this trial revolves around three key points of contention.

Discussion Trends

Accusations of Corruption and Bias

Many voters mention their belief that the New York Trump trial is rife with corruption and political bias. For example, there are repeated references to perceived bias by Judge Juan Merchan. People believe he has been making unfair rulings and that he is acting corruptly. There are claims he is part of a wider conspiracy to politically prosecute Trump, with some suggesting the entire American justice system is now corrupted.

Trump's Guilt or Innocence

Two major narratives emerge with respect to Trump's guilt or innocence. Some are vehement that Trump is guilty, arguing the evidence is compelling. However, a large portion of observers suspect Trump is innocent, positioning him as the victim of a witch-hunt. The theme of Trump's innocence amid a corrupt system that is politically targeting him seems most prevalent.

Political Persecution

There are strong suggestions the trial is politically motivated and seeking to discredit or undermine Trump and the Republican Party. Those who discuss this believe Democrats have weaponized the justice system for their own purposes. They say Trump’s trial is a symptom of a broader social corruption and potentially threatening to any American citizen.

Sentiment Trends

Emotional Drivers

Many voters express anxiety and anger about perceived biases within the justice system. These individuals see Trump as being unjustly persecuted. They feel the charges brought against him are overly politicized.

Others voice disgust at what they perceive to be corruption within the judicial system. They assert that Judge Merchan and the prosecutors are not impartial and are engaging in egregious misconduct that should be investigated.

There is also anger and frustration from those who insist Trump is guilty of the charges brought against him. They express their faith and hope in the justice system along with their desire for a conviction.

Demographic Patterns

There are no specific geographic patterns, which suggests national interest in the case is relatively consistent. However, political alignment plays an important role. Those who support Trump — likely staunch Republicans and MAGA voters — demonstrate a high level of skepticism and discontent with the trial. Those who support the trial proceedings are likely to be Democrats or anti-Trump voters.

Sentiment Trends

Overall, most voters seem to lean more towards negative reactions fueled by fear of corruption, perceived bias, and lack of trust in the legal framework. Any positive sentiments are submerged in the negative discourse, but mostly revolve around faith in the justice system and the prospect of Trump's conviction.