Former President Donald Trump is facing additional damages in a New York trial after Jean Carroll testified against him. Carroll is seeking more than $10 million in damages on top of the $5 million previously awarded to her last year. In the trial, Carroll accused Trump of sexually abusing her in a department store dressing room in 1996 and defaming her by denying her claims and attacking her credibility. Notably, Trump was not present in the courtroom as he was attending the funeral of his mother-in-law in Florida.
In response to Carroll's accusations, Trump took to social media in the early hours of the morning, posting a lengthy all-caps message arguing for absolute immunity for presidents, even in cases that 'cross the line.' This post has caught the attention of the Supreme Court, which is currently considering the immunity claim in the ongoing appeals court showdown.
The Supreme Court is closely monitoring the proceedings, as both sides presented their arguments in December when Special Counsel Jack Smith attempted to involve the Supreme Court. While the lower court is currently handling the jurisdictional question, it is likely that the Supreme Court justices are contemplating the legal issues surrounding immunity and the remaining defenses available to Trump if he lacks total immunity.
The concept of presidential immunity has never been fully tested in terms of criminal prosecution, as no former president has been charged with a crime. Trump's attorneys argue that prosecuting a president for actions related to election subversion would set a dangerous precedent and could potentially restrict future presidents from performing their official duties. However, skeptics argue that there must be limits to immunity to prevent abuse of power and ensure accountability.
Furthermore, Trump's social media post is seen as a political strategy to rally his base of supporters. This tactic has proven effective in the past, but it remains to be seen how it will be received by general or potential general election voters. Critics are concerned about the potential abuse of power if Trump were to be reelected in 2024.
As for the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Roberts is known for his cautious approach and aversion to becoming entangled in election disputes. However, with the pending case examining Trump's role in the January 6th attack on the Capitol and the ongoing immunity dispute, it is likely that the Supreme Court will play a significant role in these matters. The justices may act swiftly once the D.C. Circuit rules on the immunity question, ultimately determining the extent of presidential immunity in relation to criminal prosecution.
The Supreme Court recognizes its unique position as the final authority on the law, and Trump, too, understands the significance of the Court's involvement, as indicated by his statement, 'God bless the Supreme Court.'
