America doesn't indemnify it's elected officials like some countries in Europe do. The presidency doesn't come with an absolute get out of jail free card. Official immunity only extends to acts performed within the context of the office or position. Those acts are, legally, those of the government. If you think a policy harmed you, you sue the entire government. Doesn't matter if Bush's war killed your spouse or a TSA agent made you miss a flight.
However, that's not the case here. The action was not committed by President Trump, but before he held office. He's still liable for his actions as a private citizen.
He may or may not qualify for government counsel (lawyers employed by the White House and paid for by taxpayers) simply by assuming office. I dont know that answer. However, at this stage of the case, it's probably too late to bring in a whole new team anyway (which might not be better than what Trump keeps on retainer).
I have to, surprisingly, side with the defendant here. He has a lot of shit to get in order as is, and it may be in the public interest to get that sorted out before continuing the case.
However, that's not the case here. The action was not committed by President Trump, but before he held office. He's still liable for his actions as a private citizen.
He may or may not qualify for government counsel (lawyers employed by the White House and paid for by taxpayers) simply by assuming office. I dont know that answer. However, at this stage of the case, it's probably too late to bring in a whole new team anyway (which might not be better than what Trump keeps on retainer).
I have to, surprisingly, side with the defendant here. He has a lot of shit to get in order as is, and it may be in the public interest to get that sorted out before continuing the case.