Members-Only Article

Trump On The Stand In Capitol Riot Cases? Don’t Hold Your Breath

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 28: Former President Donald Trump addresses the Conservative Political Action Conference held in the Hyatt Regency on February 28, 2021 in Orlando, Florida. Begun in 1974, CPAC brings tog... ORLANDO, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 28: Former President Donald Trump addresses the Conservative Political Action Conference held in the Hyatt Regency on February 28, 2021 in Orlando, Florida. Begun in 1974, CPAC brings together conservative organizations, activists, and world leaders to discuss issues important to them. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) MORE LESS

May 18, 2021 10:33 a.m.

With all the focus on Trump’s rhetorical effect on dozens of Capitol attack defendants (I wrote about that here), it’s tempting to imagine the former commander in chief being grilled by prosecutors and defense attorneys in a D.C. courtroom.

Lawyers for some of the accused have sought to incorporate him into their cases, stating that their clients would not have participated in the events of Jan. 6 had they not believed they were ordered to do so by the then-president.

This is a members-only article

Small Team. Big Results.

We’re proud of what our small newsroom has accomplished and it’s not hyperbole when we say that without our members, none of this would be possible.

Become a TPM Member

Free memberships available for students and those experiencing financial hardship.

Already a member? SIGN IN