On Tuesday, the Supreme Court delved into another pivotal case that could significantly impact former President Donald Trump as well as numerous January 6th Capitol riot defendants. The focus is on whether the obstruction of an official proceeding charge, typically carrying a severe penalty of up to 20 years, applies to those who interrupted the certification of the 2020 election results.
Arguments presented yesterday include those from Joseph Fischer, a former officer indicted for his participation in the Capitol breach. His defense team claims the law was never intended to address acts like his, but rather the destruction of evidence. On the other side, the government argues that the statute should encompass all efforts to corruptly block official federal proceedings, including violent riots.
As the court deliberates, there’s significant attention on Justice Clarence Thomas, who has chosen not to recuse himself despite widespread criticism and apparent conflicts of interest related to his wife Ginni Thomas’ activities and involvement on January 6th. Next week, the justices will also review claims about Trump’s absolute immunity from prosecution.
Click play to listen to the report from AURN White House Correspondent Ebony McMorris. For more news, follow @E_N_McMorris & @aurnonline.
