"Unpacking the Trump Immunity Claims: Insights from the Appeals Court Hearing"

A federal appeals panel expressed skepticism towards Donald Trump's argument for immunity from prosecution for his actions after the 2020 election, with judges questioning the potential extreme implications of absolute presidential immunity. Trump's lawyers argued for dismissal of his federal election subversion indictment, but the judges raised concerns about the dangerous path it could lead to, signaling overall skepticism of Trump's view. The hearing also delved into hypothetical scenarios and the jurisdiction of the appeals court to decide on presidential immunity at this point in the case. Trump's attorney argued for immunity, warning of a "Pandora's box" of indicting former presidents, while the special counsel's team emphasized the need for a mechanism to indict future ex-presidents if they attempt to stay in power despite losing an election.