A federal judge in Atlanta is set to hear arguments on Monday regarding former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows’ request to move his case, part of the Georgia 2020 election probe, from Fulton County court to federal court. Meadows, along with former President Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants, have been charged with racketeering in connection with their efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia.
Meadows’ lawyers contend that the charges against him relate to actions he took while serving in the Trump administration and as Chief of Staff. They argue that he has the right to remove the case to federal court under a federal law that allows U.S. officers to transfer civil or criminal trials from state court to U.S. District Court. The legal team further claims that Meadows’ duties as chief of staff included activities such as arranging meetings, contacting state officials on behalf of Trump, and setting up phone calls, which are all expected responsibilities of someone in that position.
In the 41-count indictment, Meadows has been charged with violating Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer. He surrendered to authorities and was subsequently released after a federal judge denied his request to delay his arrest. U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones stated that while Meadows argues his federal officer status and federal immunity should protect him from arrest and trial in state court, the law makes it clear that state court proceedings can continue until federal jurisdiction has been established.
The indictment alleges that Meadows, Trump, and unnamed co-conspirators unlawfully solicited Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on January 2, 2021, to assist them in overturning the presidential election results. The charges specifically mention a phone call between Trump and Raffensperger, during which the former president urged the secretary of state to “find” the votes needed to overturn Joe Biden’s victory in Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the charges against Mark Meadows?
Mark Meadows has been charged with violating Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer. These charges are part of the Georgia 2020 election probe.
Why does Mark Meadows want to move his case to federal court?
Meadows’ lawyers argue that the charges against him relate to actions he took while serving as Chief of Staff in the Trump administration. They claim that he has the right to remove the case to federal court under a federal law that allows U.S. officers to transfer civil or criminal trials from state court to U.S. District Court.
What is the basis of Meadows’ defense?
Meadows’ legal team contends that his duties as chief of staff included activities such as arranging meetings, contacting state officials on behalf of Trump, and setting up phone calls. They argue that these actions are expected responsibilities of someone in that position and are not inherently criminal.