In a speech at the White House on Monday night (1st), President Joe Biden criticized a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that granted occupants, including former President Donald Trump, immunity for “official acts” carried out during their terms. Biden emphasized that in America, there are no kings and that everyone is equal before the law, including the president.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, decided by a six to three vote, followed an appeal by Trump challenging an earlier decision by an appeals court. This all relates to investigations into the Capitol riot in January 2021, which occurred during Trump’s presidency. The decision allows Trump, with a claim of immunity, to potentially avoid legal consequences relating to this incident.
Biden expressed concern that this decision sets a dangerous precedent, suggesting that future presidents could now bypass the law with little limitation. He described the Capitol riot as one of the darkest days in American history and urged for limits on presidential powers and actions.
The Supreme Court’s ruling comes at a crucial time as Biden faces criticism for a poor debate performance against Trump and questions regarding his cognitive abilities. A recent poll showed that a majority of registered voters did not consider Biden to be mentally fit for presidency, adding further pressure to his campaign.