According to media reports, former President Donald Trump’s lawyers have filed several motions to dismiss proceedings in the so-called document affair. They rely, among other things, on his immunity, the broadcasters NBC News, ABC News and CNN reported unanimously on Thursday (local time).
The Republican was charged in the documents scandal last June for keeping government documents, some of which were highly classified, at his private Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and failing to return them even when asked.
He was accused of illegally storing highly sensitive information from his time as president (2017 to 2021). The 77-year-old presidential candidate and an aide were also charged with conspiracy to obstruct the investigation. Both pleaded ‘not guilty’. This was accompanied by a third co-suspect.
“President Trump is entitled to immunity”
In the requests, now filed before a corresponding deadline in a federal court in West Palm Beach, Florida, the lawyers reportedly claim that keeping the documents as personal records was an official act of the president. “President Trump is entitled to immunity from this official act, and that should include immunity from criminal prosecution,” it said.
Trump’s defenders also argued that the appointment of special counsel Jack Smith, who is leading the investigation into the former US president in two major criminal cases under federal law, was unlawful. Trump also invoked his immunity in his trial for attempted election fraud in Washington.
The Republican is facing four criminal proceedings in the US, including for his attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. At the same time, civil proceedings are underway. Trump repeatedly speaks of a “political witch hunt”. The 77-year-old is considered the Republicans’ most promising candidate in the upcoming presidential elections in November. President Joe Biden (81) wants to run for a second term for the Democrats. (sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
