Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has taken a stand against presidential immunity, particularly in the case of former President Donald Trump, for criminal prosecution.
In an interview on NBC News' "Meet the Press" with Kristen Welker, McConnell said, "Obviously, I don't think that, but it's not up to me to make that decision." He underscored the role of the Supreme Court as the ultimate authority in deciding on the necessity of "some kind" of immunity for the president to prevent constant legal entanglements.
"So we'll just see how the Supreme Court deals with it," McConnell said.
The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments Thursday on whether Trump can face criminal prosecution for alleged actions to overturn his 2020 election defeat while being in office.
Trump contends he is entitled to "absolute" immunity for what he characterizes as official actions despite his insistence that he's innocent. The court appeared divided on the issue, with the conservative-leaning majority indicating varying degrees of openness to such protection while still delineating boundaries to exclude a president's private conduct, ABC News reported.
Welker pressed McConnell on his previous comments and his 2021 vote to acquit Trump during his impeachment trial. McConnell affirmed his earlier stance, reiterating that Trump is accountable for his actions while in office. However, he emphasized the significance of the Supreme Court's forthcoming ruling in determining the scope of presidential immunity.
"We're gonna find out, aren't we? I mean, the Supreme Court is going to deal with that direct issue that I was referring to on Feb. 13, 2021. And I think we'll find out sometime soon," McConnell said.
The outcome of this landmark case carries significant implications, potentially sparking new legal disputes and potentially prolonging Trump's other ongoing legal battles.
A forthcoming ruling from the high court will determine whether Trump could stand trial before the November election on four charges, including conspiracy to defraud the United States, brought forth by special counsel Jack Smith.
A ruling is expected by the end of June.
Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.