"Paul Pelosi Trial: Accused Attacker's Testimony Reveals Bizarre Plot and Alternate Reality Defense"

David DePape, the man who attacked Nancy Pelosi's husband, is facing trial, and his defense is arguing that he wasn't interfering with Pelosi's role in Congress but rather seeking to hold her captive over a "wholly unrelated" role in a bizarre conspiracy theory. This defense reflects the growing prevalence of extremism in American politics, where defendants are asking judges and juries to consider their breaks from reality when rendering judgment. The verdict on DePape's argument could come soon, and it could have implications for other cases, such as those related to the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. Prosecutors argue that DePape's actions and words show retaliation against Pelosi over her official role, while the defense claims that the charges belong in state court, not federal court.
- Prosecutors grapple with alternate reality defense of the political fringe in Paul Pelosi trial POLITICO
- David DePape admits hitting Paul Pelosi with hammer after breaking down on stand Fox News
- Paul Pelosi attack suspect surprisingly takes the stand to testify in his own defense NBC News
- David DePape’s ex-wife Gypsy Taub says federal trial is a sham KRON4
- Accused Pelosi hammer attacker David DePape tearfully testifies of bizarre plot BBC.com
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