The federal judge overseeing the classified documents case involving former President Donald J. Trump showed skepticism about the government’s request for an early trial but also indicated a reluctance to delay the trial until after the 2024 election. Judge Aileen M. Cannon, a Trump appointee, demonstrated her command of the courtroom and familiarity with the case during the hearing in Fort Pierce, Florida. She did not make a final decision on the trial date but promised to issue a written order promptly.
The timing of the trial is significant because it intersects with the presidential campaign, where Mr. Trump is currently the leading contender for the Republican nomination. Judge Cannon’s decision on scheduling the trial will be an early test for her, following criticism in a related case where she made favorable decisions for Mr. Trump in the initial stages of the investigation.
During the hearing, Judge Cannon asked Mr. Trump’s lawyer, Christopher Kise, if he wanted to postpone the trial until after the election. Although Kise expressed his preference for a delay, Judge Cannon redirected the focus to more immediate matters, such as the discovery process and upcoming motions.
As the hearing concluded, Todd Blanche, another one of Mr. Trump’s attorneys, proposed revisiting the trial schedule in November. Acknowledging the judge’s desire to establish a roadmap for the case, Blanche suggested a mid-November 2024 trial date if necessary, after the election.
The timing of the trial holds particular significance because a delay until after the election, and a potential victory for Mr. Trump, could lead to attempts at self-pardon or having the attorney general dismiss the case entirely.
The hearing took place in Fort Pierce, approximately two and a half hours north of Miami. It occurred a month after the special counsel’s office, led by Jack Smith, filed an indictment against Mr. Trump. The indictment accuses him of unlawfully retaining 31 classified documents after leaving office, in violation of the Espionage Act.
Mr. Trump faces charges alongside his co-defendant, Walt Nauta, one of his personal aides. Nauta was present in court with his lawyer, Stanley Woodward Jr., while Mr. Trump was absent. Despite his absence, the discussion largely revolved around Mr. Trump, delving into the philosophical tensions inherent in prosecuting a former president who seeks to reclaim the White House.
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