Rep. Joe Wilson, right, ripped the Trump guilty verdict and said Judge Juan Merchan, left, is helping Trump get reelected. (Getty Images)
"My view of inviting him to the inauguration is to show my recognition that what Merchan is doing unintentionally is reelecting …Donald Trump," Wilson told Fox News Digital. "In fact, I've got one of my grandson's, Houston Wilson, ready to be with him and to make sure he has proper seating."
Wilson pointed out that both Trump and aligned Republican groups have raked in massive campaign donations since a New York City jury ruled the ex-president was guilty on 34 criminal counts of falsifying business records in the first degree. Eric Trump announced earlier this week that the campaign brought in over $200 million in the first three days following the conviction.
Trump had been on trial for charges linked to accusations that he falsified documents to cover up hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels in the lead-up to the 2016 election.
TRUMP ATTORNEYS REQUEST MERCHAN LIFT GAG ORDER AHEAD OF PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE, FOLLOWING END OF TRIAL
Wilson is a staunch ally of the former president. (REUTERS/Julia Nikhinson)
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"And hey, I mean it to indicate to him that what he has done is wrong," Wilson said. "I would urge him to come to see the response to the American people. I think people will be polite, but they will certainly let him know that his conduct is unethical and corrupt. Totally corrupt."
Fox News Digital reached out to the New York City public court system for a response.
Elizabeth Elkind is a politics reporter for Fox News Digital leading coverage of the House of Representatives. Previous digital bylines seen at Daily Mail and CBS News.
Follow on Twitter at @liz_elkind and send tips to elizabeth.elkind@fox.com
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https://www.foxnews.com/politics/house-republican-shares-why-he-invited-judge-merchan-trump-inauguration