To the Journal editor:

Does former President Trump have presidential immunity for illegal acts committed while in office? That is the question which Special Counsel Jack Smith has asked the US Supreme Court to decide.

The court, while not writing an opinion on the matter. did request Trump’s lawyers respond to Mr. Smith’s question by December 20th, 2023.

If the supreme court decides that there is such a thing as presidential immunity then the court is setting a precedent for all former, present and future presidents. The terrifying truth of presidential immunity is that it is complete and utter unchecked power which would allow any president, regardless of political party, to do anything in office without the fear of future prosecution.

A president with such power could imprison journalists, execute political rivals, or rule continually for decades unchallenged.

The Supreme Court’s decision will determine whether America will continue to be a democracy with checks and balances of power or whether it will turn into the dark political landscape of a Margaret Atwood novel.