DOJ Withdraws Immunity for Trump in E. Jean Carroll Defamation Lawsuit

The Justice Department has reversed its position and no longer believes that former President Donald Trump should have immunity in the defamation lawsuit brought by E. Jean Carroll, who accused him of sexual assault. The change allows the case to proceed to trial in January. The DOJ stated that it lacks sufficient evidence to conclude that Trump was acting within the scope of his employment or serving the US government when he denied the allegations. The case had been held up on appeal over the scope of an employee's duties until a court ruling provided guidance. The DOJ considered Trump's deposition and statements made after leaving office, and concluded that there is no longer a sufficient basis to believe he was motivated by a desire to serve the government.