Democrat-led court battles against Trump continue to rage. Trump is facing four criminal cases that could land him in jail. Many people believe these cases are about stopping Trump from entering office, while also personal vendettas against him by Democrats.
But these cases might completely lose their footing, depending on how the Supreme Court rules on this one case.
The highest court granted to hear arguments related to presidential immunity. Trump believes he is immune to prosecution, over actions taken during his time in office. Democrats seem to be arguing the opposite. This week, the court heard their arguments.
From AP News:
Trump’s lawyers told the court that presidents would lose their independence and be unable to function in office if they knew their actions in office could lead to criminal charges once their terms were over…Justice Neil Gorsuch seemed to leave open the possibility of further proceedings before a lower court to determine whether the acts underpinning the indictment are official acts or not…
The justices are keenly aware their decision on whether former commanders in chief have immunity will have huge implications not just for this case, but far beyond this prosecution.
Justice Gorsuch told Dreeben they are “writing a rule for the ages.” Justice Kavanaugh concurred, adding: “This case has huge implications for the presidency, for the future of the presidency, for the future of the country.”
Lawyers for Trump and Special Counsel Jack Smith made arguments before the Supreme Court. The hearing lasted longer than most, extending beyond the original one-hour window. The justices pressed both sides on their claims, but it is currently unclear how they will ultimately rule.
The question related to this case is whether a former president has absolute immunity from acts as president. In the past, nobody questioned this idea. Only when Democrats indicted Donald Trump to prevent his reelection has this become a concern.
If the court rules in favor of Smith, no future president would be safe. Any action done by a president could be prosecuted by his rivals after he leaves office. A president could be handicapped by this fear, prevented from making tough decisions for the benefit of the country.
Democrats don’t seem to fear that, because they intend to hold the White House for all eternity. They do not appear to believe in a balanced government where all Americans’ views are represented, only liberals.
The court will meet again on May 9, but a decision will probably not happen any time soon.
Key Takeaways:
- The Supreme Court listened to arguments over Trump’s immunity claim.
- Democrats have prosecuted Trump over actions taken while president.
- Many believe these trials are purely to stop Trump from returning to office.
Source: AP News
