The judge in Donald Trump‘s 2020 election case has halted proceedings while he argues his potential criminal immunity.
Trump’s 2020 Election Case Paused Due to Immunity Dispute
Trump claimed that the appeal automatically freezes trial proceedings, which U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan granted. In an unsigned ruling, the D.C. Circuit fast-tracked its review of the district court’s judgment, scheduling briefs in the coming weeks and assigning Judges Karen Henderson, Michelle Childs, and Florence Pan for arguments.
Chutkan stressed that Trump’s move provides the higher court authority and would return the matter to her for trial scheduling if the immunity claim is rejected. Trump faces four accusations, including conspiracy to defraud the U.S., for allegedly plotting to prevent a peaceful power transfer after the 2020 election.
Trump pled not guilty, and Judge Chutkan refused his presidential immunity request last month.
Supreme Court to Decide on Trump’s Case as Legal Procedures Stay in Place
Special counsel Jack Smith has asked the Supreme Court to intervene instead of the D.C. Circuit, which Trump wants. The Supreme Court expedited consideration, giving Trump until December 20 to respond. Chutkan stated that the pause will not affect case integrity procedures like a gag order on Trump’s public utterances or a protective order on critical evidence. She said she was obliged by any higher court decision on these measures.
Chutkan’s order emphasizes legal precautions. The D.C. Circuit recently affirmed the gag order, allowing Trump to criticize specific corporations but restricting public comments about possible witnesses and court workers. The recent order was not commented on by the special counsel.
READ ALSO: Judge in Trump’s 2020 election case pauses proceedings amid dispute over immunity