Biden: "Recognizing Trump's Immunity Undermines Rule of Law... A Dangerous Precedent"

U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the federal Supreme Court's recognition of certain immunity privileges related to former President Donald Trump's 'attempt to overturn the election results' charges on the 1st (local time) as a "violation of the rule of law."

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President Biden strongly criticized in an emergency national address at the White House that day, "Today's Supreme Court decision undermines the rule of law," adding, "I oppose it. The American people should oppose it as well."

First, President Biden pointed out, "There is no king in America. Each of us is equal before the law," and "No one is above the law. The U.S. president is no exception." He said, "Today's Supreme Court decision fundamentally changes this. For all intents and purposes, there are now virtually no limits on what a president can do," warning that it is a "dangerous precedent."

He continued, "I have known to respect the limits of presidential powers I have had over the past three and a half years," but added, "Now, all presidents, including Trump, will have the freedom to ignore the law."

In particular, President Biden referred to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot led by supporters of former President Trump, defining it as "the darkest day in American history." He urged judgment on Trump in the upcoming November election, saying, "My predecessor sent mobs to the U.S. Congress four years ago to stop the peaceful transfer of power," and "Now the decision must be made by the American people."

Earlier, the federal Supreme Court ruled that some official acts taken by a former president during their term are protected from prosecution, recognizing such immunity privileges. As a result, it is expected that related criminal trials of former President Trump will not be held before the November election, partially alleviating judicial risks and boosting his presidential campaign.

Moreover, this national address drew attention as it came amid growing calls for President Biden's withdrawal following the first TV debate. During that debate, President Biden stuttered and used inaccurate sentences in his exchange with former President Trump, failing to maintain a proper argument. This reignited concerns about his age and cognitive abilities, leading even Democratic-supporting media to urge Biden to make a decision, increasing pressure for his resignation. However, President Biden did not mention his future plans in this speech. No Q&A session followed the national address.