In a riveting courtroom showdown on Tuesday, the D.C. Circuit cast doubt on former President Donald Trump‘s assertion of absolute immunity from election interference charges, unraveling key defenses in a high-stakes legal battle.
DC Circ Skeptical Of Trump Immunity From Election Charges : Skepticism Echoes in DC Circuit
A three-judge panel, orchestrating a theatrical legal drama, probed Trump’s counsel in the federal courthouse. The judges explored the limits of the claimed immunity, posing hypothetical scenarios that challenged the core of Trump’s defense. Questions included whether a president could order the assassination of a political rival or exchange pardons for cash without facing criminal prosecution.
Heightened Security as Trump Attends Proceedings
The courtroom buzzed with tension, marked by increased security measures and a substantial police presence, as Trump made a surprising appearance, promising a dramatic day of proceedings.
DC Circ Skeptical Of Trump Immunity From Election Charges : Judge Pan’s Fierce Grilling
U.S. Circuit Judge Florence Y. Pan emerged as the most formidable skeptic, relentlessly challenging Trump’s attorney, D. John Sauer. She questioned whether the immunity theory could shield a president from criminal prosecution for the most egregious official acts, emphasizing that mere Senate acquittal should not grant a carte blanche.
Trump’s Defense and Constitutional Battle
Trump’s defense hinges on the constitutional requirement that lawmakers impeach and convict a president before facing criminal prosecution. With the Senate’s acquittal in February 2021 on charges of inciting insurrection, Trump argues immunity from criminal prosecution for the same conduct.