If Donald Trump wins the 2024 presidential election, it would give him more than just the White House.
A second term would provide him with a unique opportunity to hinder some of the serious criminal cases against him, including two federal indictments for mishandling classified documents and attempting to overturn the 2020 election results.
There are also ongoing cases in state court, such as a “hush money” case in Manhattan where he was convicted on multiple felony counts and a case in Georgia accusing him of interfering with the 2020 election.
Despite hopes from Democrats that these indictments would impact his popularity among Republicans, the charges have not significantly affected his support base.
If Trump is re-elected, prosecutors in these cases may face legal obstacles, leading to possible dismissal.
What would happen to the federal cases?
Trump faces federal charges related to the 2020 election and handling of classified materials at Mar-a-Lago. If re-elected, he could influence the Department of Justice to drop these cases, as it falls under his jurisdiction as president. The appointment of a new attorney general who is sympathetic to his cause could lead to the dismissal of these charges.
There is also a possibility of Trump personally ordering the dismissal of these federal cases, as well as the termination of special counsel Jack Smith.
How would state cases be affected?
State cases in Georgia and Manhattan are outside the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice, making it harder for Trump to influence them. However, it is unlikely for these state cases to proceed if Trump is re-elected.
In Georgia, Trump faces charges related to election disruption, which could be paused if he intervenes through federal court. The Manhattan case is set for sentencing, but legal scholars suggest that Trump might avoid prison time while in office.
Experts believe that Trump has an advantage in all these cases due to his position as the president.
Could Trump pardon himself?
While presidents have the authority to pardon federal crimes, including themselves, Trump might face legal challenges if he attempts a self-pardon. The broad form of presidential immunity recognized by the Supreme Court could limit the scope of potential prosecutions against him.
Despite the possibility of a preemptive self-pardon, legal experts argue that it would face legal scrutiny and challenges.
Additional reporting by Joe Miller in New York
