The U.S. Supreme Court has chosen not to immediately rule on former President Donald Trump's assertion that he is immune from prosecution for his actions following the 2020 election. This decision allows a lower court to continue examining the matter. Rejecting a plea by U.S. Special Counsel Jack Smith, the justices declined to expedite a final ruling on Trump's claim of criminal immunity before his scheduled March trial.

The court's one-page order provided no explanation, and no justice publicly dissented. The possibility of the Supreme Court revisiting the issue at a later date remains. Meanwhile, a federal appeals court in Washington has expedited its review, with oral arguments set for January 9.

In response, Trump deemed the Supreme Court's decision a victory while acknowledging the ongoing fight in the Appeals Court. Prosecutors accuse Trump of attempting to obstruct Congress and defraud the U.S. government in his efforts to overturn President Joe Biden's election win.

Trump contends that as a former president, he is shielded from criminal charges related to his official duties. Despite a rejection by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan on December 1, Trump's appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit has temporarily halted his March trial.

Special Counsel Jack Smith's request for an expedited ruling faced opposition from Trump's legal team, emphasizing the need for a thorough appellate process. With three of the Supreme Court justices appointed by Trump, the high court maintains a conservative majority, potentially influencing future decisions on this matter.