The U.S. Supreme Court has decided not to fast-track the decision on whether former President Donald Trump is immune from prosecution for allegedly attempting to overturn his 2020 election loss. This decision is expected to impede the effort by prosecutors to begin the trial anticipated to commence on March 4th. The Justices, without any public disagreement or explanation, gave the nod to the federal appeals court to initially examine Trump’s appeal of a ruling that dismisses his immunity claim. This leaves significant questions about his legal future unanswered as the 2024 election’s primary season kicks off.
The appeals court is considering the case under a fast-track process, with Trump poised to submit his opening brief on Saturday and with hearing arguments scheduled for January 9. The issue is likely to be escalated back to the Supreme Court after the appeals court passes its ruling.
While the refusal by the Supreme Court may mean weeks or potentially even months of delay, the judge overseeing the trial has put it on hold until the immunity question is resolved. The Supreme Court’s one-sentence order highlights that Justice Clarence Thomas was a part of the process regardless of demands for his withdrawal due to his wife’s alleged involvement with efforts to overturn Joe Biden’s election triumph.
The Supreme Court’s action comes shortly after a Colorado court determined that Trump cannot constitutionally serve as President again since he played a part in instigating the January 6th, 2021 Capitol attack. Trump, who is currently leading the race for the Republican presidential nomination, has expressed his intent to appeal this ruling.
The case is officially registered as United States v. Trump, under the number 23-624.
For more detailed analysis, please refer to the original coverage on Bloomberg Law.