Trump's Terms
Special counsel taking steps to wind down cases against Trump before inauguration
Nov 7, 2024
NPR Justice Correspondent Carrie Johnson brings her expertise on the Justice Department's intriguing decision to wind down cases against Donald Trump before his inauguration. She highlights Special Counsel Jack Smith's efforts regarding Trump's actions linked to the January 6th insurrection and the classified documents scandal. The discussion reveals how these legal maneuvers may impact Trump's return to presidency and whether political pressures will influence the outcomes. Johnson also touches on presidential immunity and the broader implications for democracy.
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Quick takeaways
- The Justice Department is strategically winding down criminal cases against Trump, exploiting longstanding policies that shield sitting presidents from prosecution.
- Trump's reelection raises significant questions about the future of ongoing legal challenges, with Republican leaders advocating for cessation of legal actions to facilitate a smooth power transition.
Deep dives
Justice Department's Actions Following Trump's Election
The Justice Department is taking steps to unwind two significant criminal cases against Donald Trump now that he has been re-elected. These cases involve allegations related to Trump's efforts to maintain power during the 2020 election and the mishandling of classified documents. According to longstanding DOJ policy, a sitting president typically cannot face criminal prosecution, which has influenced the timing and nature of these indictments. As a result, there is a possibility that the cases may be formally dismissed, marking a substantial shift in the legal landscape surrounding Trump's presidency.
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