Current US presidents are protected by immunity, but prosecutions could be revived once the billionaire’s term of office is over

Justice drops charges against Donald Trump, president-elect, for 2020 election interference

Federal Judge Tanya Chutkan announced on Monday, November 25, the dismissal of charges against Donald Trump in the case involving illegal attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. This decision follows a recommendation from Special Prosecutor Jack Smith, made in accordance with a 50-year-old Justice Department policy that prohibits prosecuting a sitting president.

Jack Smith had previously secured Judge Chutkan’s approval, shortly after Donald Trump’s victory in the November 5 presidential election, to cancel scheduled deadlines in this case. He justified his request by citing the need to assess “this unprecedented situation” and to comply with the Justice Department’s longstanding policy.

Donald Trump’s campaign team quickly celebrated the decision, calling it a “major victory for the rule of law.”

However, this immunity is temporary. Judge Chutkan clarified that charges could be refiled once Donald Trump’s presidential term ends. “The immunity granted to a sitting president expires at the conclusion of their term,” she emphasized.

Donald Trump, former president and now president-elect, had faced several charges, including “conspiracy against American institutions” and “violation of voters’ rights,” for allegedly attempting to remain in power following his 2020 defeat. This decision marks a significant moment in a highly sensitive case, while leaving the door open for potential future developments.