Appeals court rules: Trump lacks presidential immunity in lawsuits over January 6
Former President Trump can be sued for his role in the January 6 events, as ruled by the appeals court in Washington, DC This significant decision ensures accountability for the events that unfolded on that day
The federal appeals court in Washington, DC has made a significant decision that former President Donald Trump can be held accountable in civil lawsuits related to the US Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, despite his position as a former president. This decision is expected to have a major impact on several cases against Trump in the federal court in Washington, DC, relating to the 2020 election. The decision was made in response to lawsuits filed by Capitol Police officers and Democrats in Congress.
Chief Judge Sri Srinivasan's opinion emphasizes that a president is not immune from liability for actions taken outside of official responsibilities while in office. The opinion asserts that a president, like any private citizen, can be subject to civil suits when acting in an unofficial, private capacity. This highlights that presidential immunity does not extend to activities conducted outside the scope of the president's duties.
All three judges on the DC Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously agreed to allow the January 6 lawsuits against Trump to proceed. Judge Greg Katsas fully agreed with the decision, while Judge Judith Rogers partially concurred. This decision paves the way for three lawsuits filed against Trump by Capitol police officers and members of Congress seeking compensation for emotional distress and physical injury from the attack to advance.
The complaints are mainly based on a federal law that prohibits people from conspiring to prevent someone from holding federal office.
Trump tried to have the lawsuits against him thrown out on various grounds, such as presidential immunity. However, the DC District Court rejected his arguments, stating that his actions before the US Capitol riot were aimed at staying in office and not part of his official duties as president.
The district court ruled that Trump was protected by presidential immunity from the claim that he failed to stop the riot, stating that he would be exercising his official presidential powers in that situation. This is a developing story and updates will be provided.
