Donald Trump pleads not guilty to four charges over efforts to overturn 2020 election

Ex-president arraigned on four felony counts related to criminal scheme' to remain in office as Trump laments sad day for America'

• Key takeaways: four charges and a swift return date

Donald Trump pleaded not guilty Thursday to federal charges over his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, marking the third time this year the former president has been forced to respond to a criminal indictment.

Trump was arrested and arraigned on four felony counts outlined in special counsel Jack Smith's indictment: conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding and conspiracy against rights.