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Justice Department Seeks to Shield Trump in January 6 Civil Lawsuits

The department argues Trump acted within his presidential duties, aiming to replace him as defendant with the U.S. government.

Police clear the U.S. Capitol Building with tear gas as supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump gather outside, in Washington, U.S. January 6, 2021.
President Donald Trump speaks at an education event and executive order signing in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Thursday, March 20, 2025.
Support of President Donald Trump climb the West wall of the the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 6, 2021.
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Overview

  • The Justice Department filed court papers requesting Donald Trump be replaced by the U.S. government as the defendant in civil lawsuits related to the January 6 Capitol attack.
  • The lawsuits, brought by police officers and Democratic lawmakers, allege Trump incited violence, causing injuries and harm during the riot.
  • The department's argument hinges on federal law protecting officials from personal lawsuits when acting in their official capacity.
  • This position marks a significant shift from the department's earlier stance under the Biden administration, which argued Trump's actions were unrelated to his presidential duties.
  • U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, overseeing the consolidated lawsuits, has not yet ruled on Trump's immunity claim.