Rep. Doggett's Statement on Supreme Court Trump Immunity Ruling

July 1, 2024

Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Austin) released the following statement on the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision regarding presidential immunity from prosecution:

“In an extremely alarming decision, the Supreme Court has taken a giant leap down the pathway to dictatorship, creating ‘a law-free zone around the President,’ allowing the office to be abused for personal gain, and essentially granting an exemption from criminal laws that all other Americans must obey. With Donald Trump leading in the race for President and promising revenge and retribution for his opponents, it is clear our judiciary will pose little check on any abuse of power.

“As Justice Sotomayor sagely wrote, ‘With fear for our democracy, I dissent.’ And ‘The President of the United States is the most powerful person in the country, and possibly the world. When he uses his official powers in any way, under the majority’s reasoning, he now will be insulated from criminal prosecution. Orders the Navy’s Seal Team 6 to assassinate a political rival? Immune. Organizes a military coup to hold onto power? Immune. Takes a bribe in exchange for a pardon? Immune.’

“So close to July Fourth, when we celebrate our independence from a king, this politicized Court enables a new authoritarian one.”