Donald Trump's legal team is making a case before a federal judge to have one of the four criminal charges against him dismissed. The charge in question is related to his alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. The argument put forth by Trump's lawyers is based on a recent Supreme Court ruling that impacts how prosecutors handle obstruction cases.
In a court filing submitted on Thursday, Trump's defense team referenced the Supreme Court's decision in US v Fischer, which has implications for obstruction charges. This ruling has already led to the dropping of such charges against some January 6 riot defendants and the resentencing of others.
The crux of Trump's defense lies in the interpretation of the Fischer ruling, which now requires prosecutors to demonstrate not only that a congressional proceeding was obstructed but also that there was a 'corrupt intent' behind the actions. Trump's lawyers argue that the statute cannot be used to criminalize lawful activities merely based on differing political views.
Prosecutors, on the other hand, contend that Trump's case is distinct from that of the January 6 rioters affected by the Fischer ruling. They point to Trump's alleged scheme to obtain fake elector certificates to challenge the election results, potentially disrupting the certification process and the peaceful transfer of power.
Additionally, a separate Supreme Court ruling this summer acknowledged that Trump may have some immunity for actions taken in his capacity as president. This ruling could have implications for how Trump's legal defense unfolds in the obstruction case.
As the legal battle continues in the DC District Court, Judge Tanya Chutkan will ultimately have to weigh the arguments presented by both sides and make a decision regarding the fate of the obstruction charge against Donald Trump.
