They're not technically wrong, though we all know the author & Times' bad-faith intent.

Considering its unprecedented and flagrant nature, you'd have to think they expected/knew they would find something to really fuck him over and imprison him. Implanting extremely convenient CP evidence won't fly with such a high-profile figure.

If they don't, well, they've pissed off a lot of voters and the gambit has the reverse effect: even a number of disinterested or disillusioned ex-Trumpers will be inclined to jump back on the wagon. Whole thing is bizarre.