Harvard Law professor emeritus Alan Dershowitz shared insights on the legal proceedings against former President Trump and the potential impact on the 2024 election during an appearance on “Mornings with Maria.”
According to Dershowitz, polls suggest that independents may be swayed by the possibility of a conviction. However, he expressed skepticism about the weight such a conviction would carry, particularly if the trial takes place in venues like New York City, Washington, D.C., or Fulton County, Georgia, which he believes may not offer a fair trial for Trump. Dershowitz anticipates at least one trial and a probable conviction before the election, emphasizing the likelihood of meticulous scrutiny by appellate courts and the Supreme Court.
He suggested that potential grounds for appeal could include issues related to venue, immunity, and the lack of a reasonable basis for a phone search. Despite the possibility of appeals, Dershowitz emphasized that any post-election convictions would have no impact on the election outcome.
In related developments, Trump’s legal team filed a motion urging U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan to pause proceedings in the Jan. 6 case while Trump’s appeal is pending. Trump faces charges related to alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, leading to the Capitol riot. Chutkan, in an earlier ruling, rejected arguments of immunity for Trump, stating that former presidents are not exempt from federal criminal liability.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Special Counsel Jack Smith has sought expedited review by the U.S. Supreme Court to prevent potential delays that could impact the scheduled trial start date of March 4.