Summary
Former President Donald Trump has been indicted, his lawyer says. It's the first time any ex-president has been indicted in a criminal case and it comes as Trump is running again. Amna Nawaz and Geoff Bennett discussed the case with two former federal prosecutors, Renato Mariotti and Jessica Roth. Key terms: Indictment — A formal accusation that someone has committed a crime. Indictments are decided by grand juries, who are presented evidence and witnesses from a prosecutor such as a district attorney. It is important to know that indictments aren't determinations of guilt, and that the accused are not convicted until they can represent their own case at a trial. Grand jury — a body of citizens gathered by a prosecutor to determine whether or not an individual should be the subject of criminal charges. Grand juries can decide not to indict based on a prosecutor's evidence, though they are not tasked with determining guilt or innocence. For a transcript of this story, click here . News wrap alternative : Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching! You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.Five Facts
- Who is interviewed for this story, and what are their backgrounds?
- Where and when was Trump indicted?
- What is known about the indictment so far?
- How do grand juries determine indictments, according to this story?
- Why has Trump not yet been arrested, according to this story?
Focus Questions
As this story makes clear, Trump's indictment marks the first time a current or former president has ever been charged with a crime. How do you think being indicted will affect how the the public views the presidency? Media literacy: This story was broadcast shortly after Trump was indicted and news spread in the media; charges are not yet known . How do the anchors and guests for this story make clear what they know and what they don't know? Do you think they clearly explain where their information is coming from? Alternative : See, Think, Wonder : What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?For More
What students can do : Find the latest updates on Trump's indictment here . As you read, write down in two columns: What is known about the indictment? What is not yet known?
Student Video of the Day
"Speaking with Trump and Biden supporters outside of the 2020 vice presidential debate" via Student Reporting LabsFill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.
