Politics

Trump Seeks SCOTUS Stay on Immunity Ruling

FEB 13 2024·Updated FEB 14 2024

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The Facts

Former US Pres. Donald Trump's legal team Monday requested the US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) issue a stay for an appeals court's ruling that Trump is not protected by presidential immunity. Trump's team is seeking more time to file an appeal.
FOX News
In Aug. 2023, the US Dept. of Justice (DOJ) indicted Trump on four counts, including conspiracy to defraud the US, for his alleged efforts to overturn current Pres. Joe Biden's 2020 election win.
The Associated Press
Previously, the appellate court earlier this month ruled Trump could be held liable because it could not accept his argument "that a President has unbounded authority to commit crimes," continuing that "Trump's stance would collapse our system of separated powers."
Axios
Trump's legal team is arguing that the appellate court committed a "stunning breach from precedent" when it issued such a "momentous" ruling so quickly.
The New York Times
Previously, US District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan in February indefinitely postponed Trump's March 4 trial date until a ruling on the immunity claims is made.
FOX News
SCOTUS Chief Justice John Roberts has requested a DOJ response by next Tuesday.
The New York Times

Sources Split

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The Spin

Anti-Trump narrative

To save American democracy, SCOTUS must reject Trump's argument and prevent the transformation of the office of the presidency into that of an uncheckable authoritarian ruler. Criminal liability ensures public officials have accountability.

Los Angeles Times

Pro-Trump narrative

With Democrats again weaponizing the justice system against Trump, it's important for SCOTUS to step up and protect him and his right to appeal an unfair ruling. The case was rigged against him at the appellate court level, but hopefully, justice will be served at the nation's highest court.