In a recent development, the Supreme Court has denied a request from special counsel Jack Smith to immediately rule on Donald Trump's claim of immunity from prosecution for his actions leading up to the January 6 assault on the Capitol. Trump argues that these actions were "official" acts and part of his job. However, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan ruled earlier this month that Trump's attempt to overturn the election and remain in power was not part of his official duties. As a result, Trump would have to stand trial on the charges listed in Smith's indictment.
Trump appealed Chutkan's ruling to the Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, effectively putting the case on hold until the question of immunity is resolved. Smith requested the Supreme Court to intervene immediately, citing the issue as a matter of great national concern. However, the high court is unlikely to review the case until after the appellate ruling, which is set to be heard on January 9.
Friday's decision by the Supreme Court likely means that Trump's trial on the coup-attempt-related charges, originally planned for March, will be delayed. The Supreme Court's decision to deny an immediate ruling on Trump's claim of immunity from prosecution has implications for his trial on the coup-attempt-related charges.