Judge pauses Trump Jan. 6 case as he appeals immunity claims | 13 Dec 2023 | The judge overseeing former President Donald Trump's Jan. 6 case on Wednesday paused proceedings in the prosecution amid his appeal claiming presidential immunity. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan issued the order, which "automatically stays any further proceedings that would move this case towards trial or impose additional burdens of litigation on Defendant," The Hill reported. Special counsel Jack Smith charged Trump in August with conspiracy to defraud, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of, and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts and asserted that the case is part of a broader political witch hunt seeking to derail his candidacy.