A federal appeals court decision on Tuesday dealt a blow to Donald Trump, ruling that the former U.S.

President is not immune from charges related to his alleged efforts to overturn the outcome of the 2020 election.

The ruling, issued by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, rejected Trump’s argument that he is shielded from prosecution due to his actions as President.

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In a unanimous decision, the panel stated that Trump, now regarded as citizen Trump for the purpose of the criminal case, no longer enjoys executive immunity that may have protected him while he served as President.

The court’s ruling paves the way for Trump to potentially face an unprecedented criminal trial.

The case against Trump accuses him of undermining American democracy and attempting to interfere with the transfer of power.

Despite facing impeachment twice by the House, Trump was acquitted both times by Senate Republicans.

Trump’s legal team had argued that former Presidents are entitled to broad legal protections and cannot be criminally prosecuted for official actions without first being impeached and removed from office by Congress.

However, the appeals court’s decision rejected this argument, allowing the case against Trump to proceed.

While Trump is expected to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court, the case will remain on hold until at least February 12 to allow time for the appeal process.

If Trump’s appeal is successful, it could potentially delay the scheduled March 4 trial until after the November election.

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The indictment brought against Trump accuses him of using false claims of voter fraud to pressure state lawmakers, Justice Department officials, and then-Vice President Mike Pence to overturn the election results.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has labeled the prosecution as politically motivated.