Legal specialists are examining the potential outcomes of the ongoing legal issues surrounding former President Donald Trump, especially if he secures a second term.
Trump currently faces four legal actions linked to the 2016 and 2020 elections, as well as classified documents. If re-elected, Trump could employ strategies to influence these cases, notably those under state jurisdiction.
In a recent article by The Washington Times‘s Alex Swoyer, it’s highlighted that prosecutors are pushing for swift trials, considering Trump might return to the presidency, which could influence federal cases.
Should Trump be reelected, he could possibly dissolve the special counsel and even drop charges. Former federal prosecutor, Joseph Moreno, doubts these cases will move forward before the upcoming election, indicating Trump’s potential to halt them.
Swoyer’s piece also suggests Trump might attempt a preemptive self-pardon before trial, a move Moreno hinted at in 2018. Such an act would be historically unprecedented and prompt debates on constitutional limits, leading experts to wonder if a self-pardon would stand in court.
Furthermore, Trump could claim immunity from prosecution while serving, aligning with the Justice Department’s stance against indicting a sitting president.
Trying Trump on state charges during his presidency could spark a “constitutional crisis,” with potential issues arising, like Secret Service interference.
Trump’s stated willingness to be “proudly arrested” in Fulton County, Georgia, over 2020 election-related charges has been in the spotlight. However, a sitting president might evade state jurisdiction, leading states to consider impeachment proceedings via Congress.
Federal charges have been leveled against Trump by special counsel Jack Smith for withholding documents and intentionally inciting confusion around the 2020 election.
Experts suggest delays might benefit Trump, potentially pushing trial dates to or after the election. While his federal cases are intricate, analysts emphasize Trump’s challenges with state cases.
To mitigate state charges, Trump might have to turn to state pardon boards. However, the possibility of jail time is uncertain due to factors like his age and other sentencing alternatives.
Amid these discussions, the relationship between legal actions, presidential authority, and a potential second term for Trump remains a topic of significant debate and scrutiny.