In a recent development, former President Donald Trump has requested the U.S. Supreme Court to indefinitely delay his federal criminal prosecution for alleged obstruction of electoral certification three years ago. Trump's lawyers filed this request on Monday, as they prepare a full application for the high court to take up the case.

The crux of the matter lies in the dispute surrounding whether Trump should enjoy absolute immunity from criminal charges for acts allegedly committed while he was in the White House. Last week, three judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit unanimously rejected Trump's bid for blanket immunity, asserting that he should be treated like any other criminal defendant, now that he is a private citizen.

The appeals court judges contended that allowing former presidents to evade prosecution for any crimes committed during their tenure would undermine the principles of separated powers and place the President beyond the reach of all three branches of government.

Given the deadline set by the three-judge panel, Trump was required to take his case to the Supreme Court by Monday. The decision made by the justices and their prompt action could determine whether Trump faces trial before the upcoming November election. The case accuses him of breaking federal conspiracy laws in an effort to retain power after losing the 2020 race to Joe Biden.

Trump has maintained his not guilty plea and argued that the case is tantamount to "election interference" against his bid to return to the White House. Conversely, Attorney General Merrick Garland, who appointed a special counsel to lead the inquiry, has sworn under oath that there has been no meddling by Biden or anyone else currently in the White House.

The issue of presidential immunity in criminal cases is unprecedented as Trump is the first former president to face such charges. The allegations against him span 91 felony counts across four different jurisdictions, with charges related to the 2020 election, his refusal to return classified documents to the FBI, and paperwork violations involving hush-money payments to an adult film star.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has shown skepticism towards Colorado's attempt to disqualify Trump from a state primary ballot on the grounds of alleged involvement in an insurrection. A decision in that case is expected within a few weeks.

As the legal battle unfolds, the Supreme Court's decision on whether to delay Trump's prosecution and potential trial will significantly impact the timeline and outcome of this politically charged case.