PHOENIX — Defense attorneys for Mark Meadows, who was former President Donald Trump’s chief of staff, argued in court today that his charges in the so-called ‘Fake Electors’ case in Arizona should be moved to federal court.
Meadows is facing nine felonies for his alleged role in an organized attempt to overturn the 2020 Presidential race in Arizona.
Attorneys for Meadows argued Thursday in front of federal Judge John Tuchi, that the case belongs in federal court as it raises federal questions. The defense said his actions don’t have to be the official business of the government to be related to his role as chief of staff, arguing he could have immunity protections afforded to federal officials.
During the proceedings, Arizona Attorney General’s Office prosecutors called two witnesses arguing the case should be in state court and the electioneering actions he took were not part of his official duties.
Prosecutors also argued Meadows’ attorneys missed the deadline to file the request to move his charges to federal court.
Last week, Meadows virtually appeared in Maricopa County related to the 'Fake Electors' case, as defense attorneys for at least a dozen of the 16 people still facing charges in the so-called 'Fake Electors' case called for the charges to be dismissed.
A decision from Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Bruce Cohen on the dismissal of those charges has not yet been released. Cohen is expected to take the matter under advisement starting Monday, Sept. 9.
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.