Atlanta, Georgia – Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich’s comments about the Supreme Court and Donald Trump’s tax returns have resurfaced. Gingrich suggested that if congressional Democrats pursued Trump’s tax returns, they would be trapped into appealing to the Supreme Court. Five years later, a member of Trump’s legal team made a related assessment, expressing hope that the conservative-majority Court would rule in the former president’s favor. The legal battles revolve around Trump’s eligibility for the 2024 ballot, with two states already concluding that he cannot appear on it.
The comments made by Gingrich and Trump’s attorney, Alina Habba, raise questions about the role of the Supreme Court in shielding Trump from accountability. Habba stated on Fox News that she has faith in the Court and expects justices like Kavanaugh, whom the president “fought for,” to step up. However, she later clarified that she believes the justices would side with Trump because they are pro-law, not because they are pro-Trump.
Habba’s rhetoric highlights the potential implications of Kavanaugh and other justices being perceived as indebted to Trump. If the Court were to strictly adhere to the language of the 14th Amendment, Trump’s client would likely face challenges in his appeals. Habba has previously made public comments that were unhelpful for Trump’s defense, adding her “step up” rhetoric to the list.
The ongoing legal battles are expected to be resolved by the U.S. Supreme Court. Section 3 of the 14th Amendment plays a crucial role, prohibiting public officials who engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the Constitution from holding office. As more states consider barring Trump from the 2024 ballot, the Court’s decision on the matter becomes increasingly significant.
In conclusion, the resurfacing of Gingrich’s comments and Habba’s hopeful expectations for the Supreme Court’s ruling raise questions about the justices’ impartiality and their potential loyalty to Trump. The outcome of the legal battles surrounding Trump’s eligibility for the ballot will likely be determined by the Court’s interpretation of the 14th Amendment.