DOJ Cites Federal Tort Claims Act in Trump Case

The U.S. Justice Department has filed to substitute the United States as the defendant in civil lawsuits against former President Donald Trump related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, claiming he acted within his official capacity. This motion invokes the Federal Tort Claims Act, which mandates the government as the exclusive remedy for lawsuits over federal employees' actions within their official roles. The lawsuits, brought by police officers and Democratic lawmakers, accuse Trump of inciting violence and aiding assaults on police during the riot. This legal stance by the DOJ could potentially dismiss the cases, shielding Trump from personal liability and financial accountability. The decision marks a shift from the DOJ's previous position during Biden's administration, which argued Trump's actions were unrelated to his official duties. The cases, consolidated under Judge Amit Mehta, are being closely watched as they could have significant political and financial ramifications for Trump.