Richard Primus Reflects on Trump’s Legacy: A Scathing Critique of Complicity
In a poignant statement that has resonated deeply with critics of former President Donald Trump, legal scholar Richard Primus declared, “After Trump is gone, one of the things I’m going to remember is the cowardice of people who went along.” Shared by the Trump Resistance Movement on April 24, 2025, this quote encapsulates a growing sentiment among those who view Trump’s tenure as a dark chapter in American history—one marked not just by his actions, but by the silence and complicity of those who enabled him. The striking red graphic, featuring a solitary figure walking away, underscores the gravity of Primus’ words.
Primus, a constitutional law professor and vocal critic of Trump, has long argued that the former president’s leadership style undermined democratic norms. His statement reflects a broader reckoning as the nation grapples with Trump’s legacy in April 2025, years after his presidency ended in 2021. For Primus, the true stain of this era lies not only in Trump’s policies—such as his immigration crackdowns, trade tariffs, or handling of the January 6th insurrection—but in the failure of political leaders, institutions, and even ordinary citizens to stand against him. The “cowardice” he speaks of refers to those who, out of fear, ambition, or apathy, supported or failed to challenge Trump’s actions.
The Trump Resistance Movement, which shared the quote, has been a vocal advocate for accountability, pushing for reflection on how Trump’s influence reshaped American politics. The choice of a stark red background and the silhouette of a departing figure evokes a sense of finality, suggesting that the time for reckoning is near. Primus’ words strike at the heart of a polarized nation, where many still view Trump as a champion of the working class, while others see him as a threat to democracy. The accusation of cowardice is particularly pointed, implicating not just political allies but also moderates who remained silent during moments of crisis.
This statement comes at a time when the U.S. is still navigating the aftermath of Trump’s policies and the cultural divides they deepened. From the judiciary to the media, institutions that were tested during his presidency continue to face scrutiny for their roles in either resisting or enabling his agenda. Primus’ critique serves as a call to action, urging Americans to learn from this era and hold accountable those who prioritized personal gain over principle.
As the nation moves forward, Primus’ words will likely fuel ongoing debates about complicity, courage, and the future of American democracy. Whether they inspire meaningful change or simply deepen existing divides, they stand as a stark reminder of the moral stakes in political life—and the cost of looking the other way.
