Plain Dealer headline on Trump verdict got it right the first time

Chris Quinn characterizes as “a terrible, terrible mistake” The Plain Dealer’s May 31 headline that referenced Donald Trump’s belief the verdict was politically motivated (”False equivalence wrecked our headline on Trump’s felony convictions,” June 2). Quinn says the headline should’ve been “TRUMP GUILTY,” because that’s been the template for public figures, including the “NIXON RESIGNS” headline.

What Quinn isn’t recognizing is that pressure to remove Nixon was bipartisan. Regarding the Trump trial, the reaction has been partisan. Some polls suggest the verdict increased public support for Trump, as many did view the trial as a political witch hunt. This is an undeniable fact in what admittedly is a divided country. Under those circumstances, a longer headline was appropriate to reflect concerns, not just from Trump, but from the general public.

So, The Plain Dealer’s headline, “TRUMP FOUND GUILTY, SAYS HE’S A ‘POLITICAL PRISONER’,” was right the first time.

Mr. Quinn, don’t let extremists intimidate you. The controversial Trump trial in New York City isn’t the same as when Nixon was forced by both parties to resign after Watergate. The Plain Dealer headline was truthful and at least hints at the partisan reaction to the charges, the trial, and the verdict.

John Walsh,

Beachwood