Former President Donald Trump’s courtroom demeanor left legal experts and observers bewildered during a recent appearance before a three-judge panel in D.C. Seeking immunity from criminal charges, Trump’s shift from a political figure to what was described as a “defeated defendant” by former prosecutor Glenn Kirschner drew attention.
Kirschner, speaking on MSNBC’s “The Last Word” with Lawrence O’Donnell, expressed astonishment at Trump’s behavior, emphasizing his avoidance of eye contact, disinterest in his surroundings, and a subdued posture. The legal expert underscored the stark contrast from Trump’s usual political demeanor, noting that he appeared resigned to his fate.
Trump’s counsel, Dean John Sauer, attempted legal acrobatics by arguing that as President, Trump could make decisions without facing criminal repercussions. Kirschner dismissed this strategy as “harebrained,” arguing that it could render the Department of Justice powerless, as the only way to prosecute a president for crimes committed in office would be through impeachment.
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The former prosecutor raised concerns about the potential implications, suggesting that if Congress failed to impeach a president for serious crimes, it could grant immunity, leaving the DOJ unable to pursue criminal charges. Kirschner also pointed out the loophole where a president could resign before impeachment, securing immunity.
Despite Sauer’s efforts, the legal battle ended in a loss for Trump, with Kirschner highlighting the lack of coherence in the argument, which he claimed made no sense to the judges or the audience.
Meanwhile, Watergate reporter Carl Bernstein speculated on the impact of the federal criminal election subversion trial, anticipating a political spectacle in federal court. On CNN’s “NewsNight,” Bernstein shared insights into the potential revelations from Jack Smith and described the trial as a political shell game.
In a separate incident, Trump faced criticism for arguing before an appeals court that he could order the assassination of a political opponent without facing criminal liability. Critics pointed out the inconsistency, noting Trump’s previous arguments against presidential immunity even while in office.
Adding an unusual twist to the ongoing political discussions, former FBI special agent Stuart Kaplan’s appearance on Fox News suggested that pop star Taylor Swift’s voter registration promotion hinted at her being a covert asset. Kaplan’s unconventional claim stirred controversy and contributed to the complex and dynamic political landscape.
Trump’s recent legal maneuvers, combined with unexpected statements from key figures, have left legal experts and observers perplexed, raising questions about the coherence of arguments presented in court. The unfolding events continue to contribute to a complex and dynamic political landscape.
