MORNING NEWSBREAK | South Carolina Republicans on Monday welcomed a ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court that said ex-presidents like GOP frontrunner Donald Trump have immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts while president. But the court didn’t define “official acts” and sent a case back to a lower court.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden attacked the ruling, saying the high court was setting a dangerous precedent that could significantly change the office of the president.
S.C. Democrats also expressed disapproval over the court’s ruling, calling it an easier route “for Donald Trump to pursue his path to a Trump dictatorship,” said S.C. Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain in a statement.
“Make no mistake: Trump is willing to do anything in his quest for revenge and retribution, and we know that he will put himself above our constitution, above American voters, and above democracy itself,” Spain said, adding that democracy is on the line in November.
S.C. Republicans were quick to respond to the ruling, praising it and its potential positive effect for Trump.
“Presidents have specific designated constitutional authorities and responsibilities … [that are] specifically granted to the presidency must come with absolute immunity, or we will have chaos in America forever,” said U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. “What defines an ‘official act’ will be determined by factual analysis going forward, with the presumption in favor of immunity.”
In the 6-to-3 ruling, the high court’s conservative majority said that official acts that are central to the presidency are given “absolute immunity” from prosecution. However, the court did not determine what constitutes an official act in this case, leaving the lower courts to sort out the specifics. The immediate result, according to media outlets, is the delay in prosecution for Trump’s attempt to overturn the 2020 election and in his conviction and sentencing in the New York hush money case.
In other recent headlines:
CP NEWS: Heavy rains bring flooding, road closures to the Lowcountry. Heavy rain swept through Charleston July 1, with the National Weather Service (NWS) estimating between 2 and 4 inches of rainfall across the county over a two hour period.
Be on the lookout for signs of heat-related emergencies. Charleston County Emergency Medical Services are emphasizing the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
Charleston Co. school board members concerned after attempted censure. Charleston County School District Board member Darlene Roberson is calling out Chairman Keith Grybowski after an attempted censure last week, saying the situation was an attempt to take her off the board.
Mother sues North Charleston police for police chase that killed 2. The North Charleston Police Department and a juvenile who could not legally drive are being sued in connection with a high-speed chase that led to the deaths of two sisters. The chase reached speeds in excess of 100 mph and crossed nine intersections in less than a minute, according to the lawsuits.
Summer camp provides place of joy for Charleston’s queer youth. QT Camp is the only summer camp in the state specifically geared towards LGBTQIA+ youth and helps create a refuge where young people can openly talk about their identity and build community with others like them.
Mount Pleasant leaders work to improve Shem Creek parking. Mount Pleasant’s Transportation Committee met Monday to discuss ways to improve parking in Shem Creek, which has caused concerns for locals and tourists over parking prices, booting and towing.
Isle of Palms sees massive increase in parking tickets this year. Isle of Palms began a partnership with PCI Municipal Services to manage parking in March. After that first full month, the city reported a 4,000% increase in parking citations with the numbers increasing each month afterward.
Mount Pleasant water company announces rate hike. Mount Pleasant Waterworks announced the water company raised rates by 8% as part of the fiscal year 2025 budget.
Joint Base Charleston introduces new commander. Joint Base Charleston held a change of command ceremony Monday morning as Michael Freeman, 628th Air Base Wing and Joint Base Charleston commander, relinquished his command to Col. Jason Parker, from the 6th Mission Support Group, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.
Help keep the City Paper free.
No paywalls.
No subscription cost.
Free delivery at 800 locations.
Help support independent journalism by donating today.