Quote:
Originally Posted by devo22
can he pardon himself or does he need to step down and let Pence do it? And that only protects from federal cases, yes?
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I don't think he can pardon himself. I just don't see that standing up in court. He would have to step down and Pence pardon him, but I doubt Pence would give him immunity against future charges. That is a pretty massive get out of jail card and be tied directly to your actions. That would end Mike Pence and destroy his legacy should something go sideways with Trump, and what doesn't go sideways with Trump? And yes, presidential pardons only affect federal crimes. The majority of charges he could face are state charges and ones he is unlikely to be able to get out from under.
Fraud, related to Trump University and Trump charities to start.
Falsifying business records, in relation to over-inflating the value of his properties to secure loans and under-reporting income to limit tax exposure.
Lying to investigators, in relation to every investigation ever held against him. When Trump's lips move lies are sure to follow.
Witness tampering, people are going to suggest this has only happened while he was in the White House, but Michael Cohen documented that he intimidated witnesses on behalf of Donald Trump and under his direct orders as part of his duties as his legal counsel.
Tax fraud, which has been well documented with the recent disclosures.
Rape, and there is DNA evidence. Trump has refused to give a DNA sample and has been slow playing this. As a private citizen he can be compelled to give up that evidence during a criminal investigation.
Racketeering, related to the operation of his whole enterprise. The Trump organization is a family run interest, and when I say family I mean la cosa nostra. The Trump family is a criminal enterprise. Is there anyone with a more fitting name than "The Don(ald)?"
Federal charges he could face include obstruction of justice, lying to investigators, and witness tampering, all related to the Mueller probe and the findings from that period.
It is sad to think that what you and I would go through in relation to any one of these charges with the evidence left behind. The system would not be kind to us. The proverbial book would dropped on us with the maximum weight possible. But because of his "apparent" wealth and power, he could skate on this stuff. I really hope the NYAG drops a massive turd on Trump's head and brings him to justice. But that's just me, someone who thinks everyone should be treated the same regardless of you access to money and people in positions of authority.