Former Republican Representative Liz Cheney has issued a stern message to the U.S. Supreme Court, emphasizing the need for a “quick and decisive” ruling on the matter of presidential immunity, particularly pertaining to former President Donald Trump’s case.
At the heart of this legal skirmish is the Supreme Court’s consideration of Trump v. United States. The case revolves around whether Trump can claim immunity from criminal prosecution for actions taken during his presidency. Trump’s attorneys insist on absolute immunity, a stance that was met with skepticism by some of the Supreme Court justices during oral arguments. The court appears to be considering a more nuanced approach, differentiating between official and private acts.
Cheney, a vocal critic of Trump following the January 6 Capitol riot, has taken to social media to express her views, urging the court to forego the complexities of immunity and focus on the specifics of Trump’s conduct. She highlighted the lack of an official presidential role in the events of January 6, characterizing Trump’s actions as private. Cheney’s message to the Supreme Court was clear: “Rule quickly and decisively.”
Her assertion is that Trump’s efforts to influence the 2020 election results, through pressure on then-Vice President Mike Pence and engagement in a fraudulent elector scheme, were private acts devoid of any official immunity. Further, she pointed out that Trump, in a legal brief from December 9, 2020, admitted to acting “in his personal capacity as a candidate.”
Analysts suggest that if the Supreme Court opts to remand the case back to a lower court, it could delay any potential trial, especially one that may intersect with the upcoming election cycle. Cheney, in her recent op-ed, warned that such a delay could prevent the public from hearing critical evidence and obstruct holding responsible parties to account for January 6.
Despite her high support of Trump’s policies during his term, Cheney has transformed into a central figure advocating against the dangers she believes Trump represents to the democratic process. Her persistent warnings and her work with the House select committee investigating the Capitol riot demonstrate her commitment to this cause.
Relevant articles:
– Liz Cheney’s Message to Supreme Court After Donald Trump Hearing, Newsweek, 04/28/2024
– Liz Cheney Drops Urgent Message For Supreme Court Over Trump’s ‘Delaying Tactic’, Yahoo News Australia, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:32:52 GMT
– Cheney warns of ‘profoundly negative impact’ if SCOTUS doesn’t resolve Trump immunity case quickly, AOL, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 23:13:54 GMT