WASHINGTON, D.C. — A federal judge has ruled that former President Donald Trump is not immune from civil lawsuits alleging he incited the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, allowing key claims to move forward toward a potential trial.
U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta determined that Trump’s remarks at the “Stop the Steal” rally could plausibly be considered incitement and are not protected under the First Amendment. The ruling states Trump’s speech and certain actions that day fall outside the scope of official presidential duties, meaning he can be held legally accountable in civil court.
However, the judge also found Trump is protected from liability for official actions taken while in office, including communications with Justice Department officials during the riot. The decision builds on earlier rulings that rejected Trump’s broad claims of presidential immunity.
The lawsuits were brought by Democratic lawmakers and Capitol Police officers who allege Trump contributed to the violence that disrupted the certification of the 2020 election. The case is expected to be appealed but now moves closer to trial proceedings.
The ruling marks a significant legal development in one of the remaining cases tied to the Capitol attack and presidential accountability.
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