Senator Migz Zubiri’s warm embrace of Donald Trump’s re-election bid is, in his own words, a “return to conservatism” — if conservatism means supporting politicians with rap sheets that rival their résumés. 

The senator’s enthusiasm is remarkable; after all, what better way to demonstrate his commitment to “values” than by cheering on a former president still navigating multiple court cases? Zubiri seems to believe in second, third, and fourth chances — as long as they’re for friends in high places. His glowing endorsement of Trump and the principle of letting convicted felons run for office hints at his loyalty to a certain brand of politics: one where reputation doesn’t matter, as long as you have name recognition. 

By linking Trump’s “return” to the power of redemption, Zubiri conveniently sets the stage for those with questionable pasts to see politics as their true calling.