Today a Hong Kong court announced the conviction of democracy activist Jimmy Lai in charges that nearly everyone outside the Chinese Communist Party recognizes as fraudulent. The court’s decision was predictable, since criticism of the government is now illegal in Hong Kong, and Lai was not allowed to defend himself effectively. This was a show trial, in the familar tradition of authoritarian rule.

President Trump has promised in the past to push for Lai’s release. It’s a cause worthy of support.

For those not familiar with the case, the New York Times coverage today tells the story well.

nytimes.com/2025/12/15/…