The U.S. Supreme Court has granted former President Donald Trump substantial immunity from prosecution for actions taken while in office, marking a significant shift in Chief Justice John Roberts' approach. Roberts, who historically sought cross-ideological consensus, made no effort to persuade the liberal justices, resulting in a clear 6-3 partisan divide. This ruling expands presidential powers and has been criticized for its parallels to the reasoning used in overturning Roe v. Wade. The decision has highlighted Roberts' move towards a more aggressive, right-leaning stance, abandoning his previous institutionalist concerns. Critics argue that this ruling upends constitutional norms and grants excessive protections to former presidents. The case was heard after special counsel Jack Smith's request for an earlier review was declined, demonstrating the court's strategic timing in addressing this contentious issue.