DOJ Intervenes in Trump's E. Jean Carroll Defamation Appeal

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed to intervene on behalf of Donald Trump in his appeal of the $83 million defamation judgment awarded to E. Jean Carroll, arguing that the Westfall Act—which provides immunity to federal employees for actions taken within the scope of their official duties—should apply to statements Trump made in 2019 while he was president. This would result in the United States government being substituted as the defendant in the case. The DOJ's position is that Trump was acting in his official capacity when he denied Carroll's allegations, but legal experts note that the court must ultimately decide whether his statements fall within the scope of presidential duties. The DOJ had previously withdrawn support for this claim, but has now renewed its argument during Trump's appeal. Carroll's suit is separate from other civil cases against Trump, and he continues to deny all allegations while appealing the judgments. The move reopens debate over the appropriate limits of presidential immunity in cases involving personal conduct.