Former Trump trade advisor Peter Navarro was convicted on Thursday of two counts of criminal contempt of Congress. The conviction follows Navarro’s refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee investigating the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot, positioning him as the second senior official from the Trump administration to face legal repercussions for obstructing the investigation, after former White House strategist Steve Bannon.
According to the US Department of Justice, each count of contempt of Congress carries a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of one year in jail, as well as a fine of up to $100,000. The final sentence determination will be given by Federal District Court Judge Amit Mehta at the sentencing hearing scheduled for January 12, 2024.
In the lead-up to the trial, Navarro attempted to defend himself by asserting multiple claims of executive privilege in an effort to deflect the contempt charges. Despite this, Judge Mehta rejected these defences, citing an absence of evidence showing Navarro was directed by Trump to invoke executive privilege in response to the subpoena.
The proceedings of the trial were noted for their speed, starting with jury selection on Tuesday and concluding witness testimonies by Wednesday afternoon. Throughout the trial, Navarro remained defiant, criticising the Biden administration for using the judiciary for political gain and asking for contributions for his legal defense fund via his Twitter.
Navarro’s conviction makes a significant impact on the ongoing investigations into efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election result and the disturbances at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.
Separately, Steve Bannon is due to stand trial in New York on May 27, 2024. This trial follows allegations that he misused over $15 million in donations through his “We Build the Wall” campaign. The charges against him include money laundering and conspiracy, following on the heels of his contempt of Congress conviction, which he is currently appealing.
Prior to these legal complications, Navarro held an influential role as a trade advisor during Trump’s term in office, primarily focusing on policies relating to China. Navarro redirected his efforts following the 2020 election, towards initiatives to uphold Trump’s presidency. These endeavors now find him embroiled in legal difficulties.