A group of judges in a US appeals court showed serious doubts on Tuesday regarding Donald Trump's argument that, as a former president, he should be shielded from prosecution over allegations of plotting to overturn the 2020 election results.

Trump, aged 77, was present at the tightly secured appeals court session held in a Washington courthouse near the US Capitol, which was stormed by his supporters on January 6, 2021. Despite being the leading contender for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Trump silently observed the proceedings in front of a three-judge panel of the US Court of Appeals. Later, he cautioned of potential "chaos" if his prosecution moves forward.

Having faced impeachment twice by the Democratic-led House of Representatives during his presidency, Trump was acquitted both times by the Senate, which was controlled by Republicans. He is now slated to stand trial on March 4 for allegedly conspiring to overturn the 2020 election, ultimately won by Democrat Joe Biden.

John Sauer, Trump's lawyer, argued before the judges that a president can only face prosecution for actions taken while in office if they have been impeached and convicted by Congress first. "To allow the prosecution of a president for official acts would set a dangerous precedent," Sauer contended.

He further emphasized, "Rejecting criminal immunity for a president would lead to unexpected consequences, such as indicting President Biden in Texas for mishandling border affairs after leaving office."

District Judge Tanya Chutkan, assigned to oversee Trump's trial, dismissed his immunity claim last month. The appellate judges who heard the appeal on Tuesday also seemed unconvinced.

Judge Karen Henderson, appointed by former Republican President George H.W. Bush, remarked, "I find it contradictory to suggest that his constitutional obligation 'to ensure that laws are faithfully executed' permits him to breach criminal laws."
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