Former President Donald Trump’s recent indictment has brought the GOP presidential field into focus, revealing their views on the powers of the presidency and the justice system.

Trump’s rivals in the Republican Party are sending a message to the base that insists the 2020 presidential election was rigged, expressing that Trump’s actions were justified compared to the justice system’s actions. This stance aligns with the segment of the party that believes in fighting beyond the election results.

Ron DeSantis

The indictment accuses Trump of conspiring to undermine the nation’s process of collecting, counting, and certifying the results of the presidential election. Some candidates, like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, criticize the setting of the case and argue against the “weaponization of government.”

Tim Scott

Others, like Tim Scott, accuse the Justice Department of targeting Republicans while protecting Democrats, referencing allegations against Hunter Biden.

Mike Pence

However, a few GOP candidates have chosen not to attack prosecutors or defend Trump’s efforts to overturn the election. Former Vice President Mike Pence, who faced the Capitol riot, calls for a presumption of innocence for Trump while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the Constitution.

Despite the indictment, a majority of Republican voters seem to support Trump’s candidacy, creating challenges for those who criticize the former president. The upcoming presidential debate will serve as a critical test for the GOP candidates, especially for Pence, who is in danger of not meeting the donor threshold to qualify for the debate.