Trump Nominates Lawyer Who Argued His Immunity Case as Solicitor General

President-elect Donald Trump has announced his intention to nominate D. John Sauer as the next Solicitor General of the United States. Sauer, an experienced appellate attorney, gained recognition earlier this year for successfully arguing before the Supreme Court that Trump is entitled to broad immunity from prosecution. This move reflects Trump’s trust in Sauer’s legal expertise and aligns with the administration’s focus on legal strategies for the upcoming term.

Who is D. John Sauer?

D. John Sauer boasts an impressive legal career with notable credentials:

• Educational Background: A Rhodes Scholar and Harvard Law graduate.
• Clerkship Experience: Sauer clerked for Judge J. Michael Luttig on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit and the late Justice Antonin Scalia on the U.S. Supreme Court.
• Public Service: Sauer served as Missouri’s Solicitor General for six years, successfully arguing cases before the Supreme Court, including Bucklew v. Precythe, defending Missouri’s lethal injection protocol.

In private practice, Sauer represented Louisiana in challenging the Biden administration’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for healthcare workers, further highlighting his involvement in high-profile cases.

Significance of the Nomination

If confirmed by the Senate, Sauer will serve as the federal government’s top advocate before the Supreme Court. His appointment signals a continued emphasis on legal defense strategies that may shape how the administration approaches constitutional questions, executive authority, and other pivotal issues during Trump’s term.

This nomination marks a significant step in shaping the federal government’s legal approach for years to come. Sauer’s deep experience and alignment with the administration’s priorities position him as a critical figure in the legal battles ahead.