Capitol Riot Lawsuits and Election Interference Case
Former President Donald Trump suffered a legal setback on Thursday when a federal judge denied his request to pause a series of lawsuits accusing him of inciting the January 6th Capitol attack. This decision comes as Trump also faces a criminal case in Washington related to his alleged interference in the 2020 election.
The civil lawsuits, filed by Democratic lawmakers and police officers who defended the Capitol, seek damages for the harm they suffered during the attack. Trump argues that he cannot be held liable for the riot, claiming his words during a pre-attack rally were protected by presidential immunity.
However, a federal appeals court ruled in December that the lawsuits can move forward. Trump's lawyers had argued that allowing the civil cases to proceed could jeopardize his defense in the criminal case.
Judge Amit Mehta, appointed by President Barack Obama, disagreed. He stated that the public has an interest in the prompt resolution of the civil lawsuits and that safeguards can be implemented to protect Trump's Fifth Amendment rights.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is set to hear arguments next week on Trump's claim of immunity in the election interference case brought by special counsel Jack Smith. This ruling will determine whether Trump will stand trial for allegedly attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election.