The U.S. Supreme Court, on Friday, denied an immediate ruling on former President Donald Trump’s assertion of immunity against prosecution concerning efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. This decision allows a lower court to proceed with its review of the matter. Rejecting a rare plea by U.S. Special Counsel Jack Smith, the justices declined to bypass a lower appeals court, opting against expediting a final judgment on Trump’s claim of criminal immunity before his trial.
Prosecutors have accused Trump, a prominent contender for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, of endeavors to obstruct Congress and defraud the U.S. government, alleging schemes aimed at reversing President Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election.
Trump contends that as a former president, he cannot face criminal charges for actions linked to his official duties. However, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan dismissed this argument on December 1, prompting Trump’s appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. As a result, Trump’s trial, scheduled for March, remains on hold pending the appellate court’s ruling.
Attempting to expedite the trial process, Special Counsel Jack Smith urged the Supreme Court on December 11 to fast-track a decision, even as the D.C. Circuit court deliberates on the issue. If reelected in the future, Trump might consider seeking self-pardon for any potential federal charges.
However, Trump’s legal team opposed Smith’s plea, asserting that the special counsel’s request to circumvent the regular appellate process amounted to hasty decision-making.
Notably, three of the nine Supreme Court justices currently serving were appointed by Trump, which solidifies a conservative 6-3 majority on the bench.
The ongoing legal dispute continues to draw attention amid heightened scrutiny of Trump’s legal battles and their potential implications for former presidents facing criminal charges related to their official capacities.
Sources By Agencies
