The courtroom in Washington, DC was filled with tension and anticipation as former President Donald Trump attended his immunity appeals hearing. CNN’s Evan Perez reported that Trump arrived in his signature navy blue suit and red tie, accompanied by adviser and lawyer Boris Epshteyn and co-defendant Walt Nauta. Special counsel Jack Smith and his team were also present, engaging in conversation with the parents of lawyer James Pearce.
The atmosphere grew even more intense as the three judges presiding over the case entered the room, with Trump rising along with everyone else. Throughout the day’s arguments, Trump appeared mostly subdued but became more active when Pearce began presenting. He was seen taking notes and passing them to his attorney, John Sauer, and nodding in agreement at certain points.
Near the end of the hearing, Sauer emphasized that all allegations against Trump related to activity during his time in office, motioning towards his client as Trump nodded in confirmation. After the proceeding ended, Trump slowly walked out of the courtroom without any noticeable interaction with Smith.
Although there were no cameras allowed inside the federal courtroom, a live audio feed of the hearing was broadcast, with CNN’s reporters providing updates on the proceedings. The outcome of the hearing and its potential impact on Trump’s legal battles remains to be seen.