Supreme Court Immunity Ruling Could Change Everything for Trump’s Case

In a tense session at Manhattan’s Second Circuit Court of Appeals on June 11, a panel of three judges sharply questioned both former President Trump’s attorney and the Manhattan District Attorney’s team. The central issue: whether Trump’s 34-count hush-money conviction — tied to alleged payments to Stormy Daniels — should be moved from state to federal court on presidential immunity grounds.

Key Moments From the Hearing

• Trump’s Argument: Led by Jeffrey Wall of Sullivan & Cromwell (and former U.S. acting solicitor general), Trump’s team argued that “Everything about this cries out for federal court.” They claim that evidence involving official acts—like Trump’s internal White House reactions—should have been excluded under a recent Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity.

• DA’s Response: Steven Wu, chief of appeals for the Manhattan DA’s office, countered that the case primarily involves Trump’s private conduct and that the move is untimely, coming well after sentencing. Normally such removal should happen swiftly post‑arraignment.

Judges Remain Skeptical

Judges Susan Carney, Raymond Lohier Jr., and Myrna Pérez (all nominated by Democratic presidents) showed both skepticism and curiosity. Judge Carney remarked it was “anomalous” for a defendant to seek venue transfer after conviction and sentencing. Throughout more than an hour of questioning, they probed the boundaries of federal removal and sought clarity on how Trump’s immunity claim should apply.

What’s at Stake

• Where It Goes Next: The judges have taken the case under advisement and are expected to issue a decision. If they allow the move, the federal government—via DOJ—could even dismiss the case. If they deny the request, Trump’s appeal will remain in New York’s state court.

• Bigger Implications: Beyond venue, the outcome could define new limits on presidential immunity in criminal matters — whether state actions tied to a president’s tenure can shift to federal jurisdiction post‑trial.

• Possible Supreme Court Appeal: No matter what, Trump will likely take any adverse outcome up to the U.S. Supreme Court.