Former President Donald Trump has warned that if he loses his presidential immunity, it will set a precedent that could similarly affect President Joe Biden. Trump’s comments came as he faces a criminal trial in Manhattan, prompted by allegations relating to hush money payments allegedly made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which include 34 counts of falsifying business records.
Trump expressed his concerns via a post on his Truth Social platform, emphasizing that presidential immunity is crucial for the proper functioning of the presidency and protecting national security. He argued that if his immunity is revoked, it would also strip future presidents, including Joe Biden, of this critical protection.
The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on this issue of presidential immunity soon, with a decision expected by mid-June. This case is pivotal not only for Trump but also for the office of the presidency itself, as it will address whether actions taken by a president during their term can be subjected to criminal prosecution after they leave office.
Trump has consistently claimed that the charges against him are politically motivated and an attempt by his adversaries to undermine him. His trial, which began recently, has been a focal point of media attention, with Trump required to attend daily. He and his legal team have attempted to postpone the trial until after the Supreme Court’s decision on the immunity issue, but this request was denied by Judge Juan Merchan.
As the legal battle unfolds, Trump’s commentary raises significant questions about the implications of this case for all sitting and future presidents, suggesting that the outcome could have far-reaching effects on how presidential actions are treated legally after a president’s term ends.