McConnell Upholds View on Presidential Immunity at Supreme Court Hearing for Trump Case

During an interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker following the Supreme Court hearing on former President Donald Trump’s claims of absolute immunity from criminal prosecution while in office, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell stood by his previous statements that presidents should not have such unlimited protection. However, he also clarified that ultimately it is up to the court to make a decision on this matter as there needs to be some form of immunity for presidents or they would constantly face legal action. While McConnell voted in favor of acquitting Trump during his second impeachment trial last year, he has maintained that former presidents should not have complete freedom from being held accountable through civil litigation and criminal prosecution following their time in office. The Supreme Court appeared to be leaning towards rejecting Trump’s requests for sweeping immunity based on the arguments presented during Thursday’s hearing as they discussed his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, which he maintains was within the bounds of presidential duty. While McConnell endorsed Trump’s bid for reelection in March, their relationship has been strained with reports suggesting that they haven’t spoken in more than three years and have had disagreements over issues such as Ukraine aid and bipartisan negotiations.