Trump not immune from civil claims from Jan. 6 speech, judge rules

U.S. District Court Judge Amit Mehta ruled that President Trump is not immune from civil liability for his actions on January 6, 2021, allowing a lawsuit brought by Democratic lawmakers and Capitol Police officers to proceed. The ruling rejected Trump's argument that his speech at the Ellipse that day was protected speech, clearing a major legal hurdle for plaintiffs seeking damages related to the Capitol riot. The decision is significant because it keeps alive one of the few remaining civil cases against Trump regarding January 6 events, as criminal cases have largely concluded and other civil litigation has faced immunity claims. The suit alleges Trump's rhetoric and actions incited the violence that disrupted the certification of the 2020 election results. Trump's legal team is expected to appeal the ruling.