Trump’s Presidency Shields Him, But Allies Face State-Level Prosecutions Over 2020 Election
Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has granted him immunity from federal prosecution regarding his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. However, this protection does not extend to his associates, who continue to face legal challenges at the state level. Trump’s Justice Department is unable to intervene in these state cases, nor can he issue pardons to shield his allies.
State-Level Legal Actions Continue
Prosecutors in Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Nevada are actively pursuing charges against individuals allegedly involved in the “fake electors” scheme, where alternative slates of electors were falsely certified in states that Trump lost. These legal actions underscore the ongoing ramifications of the 2020 election disputes.
In states like Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, and Wisconsin, a total of 45 of Trump’s allies face charges. Meanwhile, six additional defendants in Nevada are expected to face re-indictment after a previous case was dismissed due to jurisdictional issues. High-profile individuals, including former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, Trump’s personal attorney Rudy Giuliani, and advisor Boris Epshteyn, are among those charged.
Challenges in Legal Proceedings
The legal proceedings against Trump’s allies are encountering delays and complex legal obstacles. In Michigan, Attorney General Dana Nessel initiated charges against the fake electors, but pretrial hearings have slowed progress. A decision on whether the case will proceed to trial may not occur until 2024 or later.
In Arizona, a trial is scheduled for 2026, but the case faces uncertainty after the presiding judge recused himself over impartiality concerns. In Nevada, the Attorney General is preparing to refile charges in a different jurisdiction after the initial case was dismissed.
Implications of Trump’s Presidential Immunity
Trump’s presidency complicates state-level prosecutions. While federal immunity protects him, his co-defendants do not share this shield. Legal experts highlight the unusual situation where a sitting president’s actions are connected to charges against others who remain prosecutable.
In Georgia, prosecutors may separate Trump’s case from those of his co-defendants to continue proceedings against them. Giuliani and Meadows, key figures in the Georgia case, face intensified scrutiny, with Giuliani potentially becoming a main focus if Trump’s case is severed.
