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ALBANY, NY (WENY) — A bill that would pause the statute of limitations for all crimes alleged to be committed by the sitting President of the United States has passed in New York State’s Senate.
In a Manhattan courthouse Tuesday, former President Donald Trump appeared for his arraignment hearing where his indictment was unsealed and a judge formally announced criminal charges.
While crowds surround the courthouse and Trump supporters continue to donate large amounts of money to his campaign following his indictment, some Democratic lawmakers express concern.
“It’s really unbelievable and it shows the corrupt nature of today’s Republican party,” said Assembly Member Linda Rosenthal (D-Assembly District 67).
Some Republican lawmakers said the indictment is a political prosecution. They said judicial systems should be beyond politics.
“You wonder where justice is going to be served in this case and I just don’t see it. The guy’s running for President, he was a former President. I happen to think it’s political too, but even if they’re successful in the conviction what does that bring us? Just more division unfortunately in this country,” said Assembly Minority Will Barclay (R-Assembly District 120).
In response to Trump’s indictment, the State Senate recently passed legislation that would pause the statute of limitations for civil and criminal prosecutions for individuals who serve as President of the United States.
“Just because you held a high office in the government, that doesn’t mean that you’re absolved of all responsibilities once you leave. Every person is not above the law no matter if you’re president or not,” Rosenthal said.
The legislation would have to pass in the Assembly in the same language before being sent to Governor Hochul’s desk where she can either sign it into law or veto the bill.
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