In a recent discussion, NPR’s Susan Davis and Ayesha Rascoe addressed several key points regarding Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace’s defense of former President Donald Trump and various legal matters related to his actions.
Davis highlighted Mace’s alignment with most Republicans in Congress, who remain loyal to Trump and his legal battles, especially in an election year.
Addressing Mace’s claims about past objections to election certifications, Davis clarified that while Democrats like Jamie Raskin did object to the 2016 certification, it was not with the intent to overturn the election outcome. Similarly, Hillary Clinton questioned the integrity of the 2016 election but conceded defeat without seeking to overturn the result.
Regarding Bill Clinton‘s settlement with Paula Jones, Davis noted that the public nature of the legal battle and settlement contrasts with the private nature of Trump’s payments, for which he now faces legal scrutiny.
Rascoe posed a legal question about presidential immunity, referencing the recent Supreme Court hearing in Nixon v. Fitzgerald.
Davis explained that while the case established immunity from civil lawsuits for presidents, the current issue revolves around whether former presidents are immune from all criminal prosecution for actions taken while in office. The court’s decision on this matter is expected by summertime, though it may not be known before the election.
Discussing Representative Mace’s criticism of Judge Juan Merchan in the New York trial involving Trump, Davis noted Merchan’s past political contributions to Democrats and his daughter’s work for a Democratic consulting firm. Despite attempts to have Merchan recuse himself, he maintains that he is fair and impartial.