Donald Trump has instructed his lawyers to plead not guilty to new election interference charges. The former President waved his right to be present for his arraignment and signed documents confirming he is aware of the latest indictment, has discussed it with attorneys, and is not guilty on all counts.
Special Counsel Jack Smith recently secured an indictment against the former President, accusing him of pressuring then-Vice President Mike Pence to reject electoral college votes and other offenses related to the 2020 election. Mr. Trump is charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of an attempt to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights. Smith sought the new indictment in recognition of a Supreme Court ruling that awarded Mr. Trump immunity from prosecution for actions carried out in the course of his Presidential duties.
While the charges are the same, the new filing skirts the Supreme Court decision by removing “all allegations related to attempts to use the Justice Department to perpetuate the election fraud scheme.” It also expressly notes instances during which Trump was not acting in an official capacity.
Donald Trump reacted with fury and wrote on his Truth Social media account that “Smith rewrote the exact same case in an effort to circumvent the Supreme Court Decision.” In a subsequent interview, the Republican candidate also claimed there was no legal basis to indict him at all. Speaking to reporters, the former President said he had “every right” to do what he did after the 2020 election, prompting critics to warn that he will do the same if he loses to Kamala Harris in November.
Attorney George Conway said Trump’s remarks amounted to an “admission” that he committed the alleged offenses and would not hesitate to commit them again. Democratic Rep. Ted Lieu asked Trump if he believes Joe Biden has “every right” to “interfere in the upcoming election” or if he would object to Kamala Harris pressing Tim Walz to refuse to accept electoral college votes. “Are you really this dumb?” Lieu asked.
