Judge Chutkan assigned to preside over protective order dispute in Trump’s 2020 election conspiracy case

Federal Judge Sides with Trump’s Defense in Election Conspiracy Case

In the ongoing election conspiracy case against former President Donald Trump, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan largely sided with Trump’s defense, rejecting prosecutors’ proposal for a broad protective order. The order sought to prevent the public disclosure of all evidence handed over to Trump’s defense as they prepare for trial. However, Judge Chutkan indicated that she would impose a more limited protective order that would only bar the public release of materials deemed “sensitive,” such as grand jury materials.

The dispute over the protective order became an early flashpoint in the case. Prosecutors argued that Trump’s social media post threatening to “come after” those who “go after” him could lead to the improper sharing of sensitive information online, potentially harming witnesses. They accused Trump of wanting to “try the case in the media rather than in the courtroom.” Trump’s lawyers countered that the proposed order would infringe on his free speech rights.

Prosecutors maintain that a substantial amount of evidence, including grand jury transcripts and evidence obtained through sealed search warrants, contains sensitive and confidential information. They argued that a protective order is necessary to prevent Trump from publicly disclosing these materials and potentially interfering with the fair administration of justice. Trump’s legal team, on the other hand, requested a narrower order that would only restrict the release of grand jury documents.

The case, which was unsealed last week, marks the first criminal case seeking to hold Trump accountable for his role in the January 6th Capitol attack. He has pleaded not guilty to four felony counts, including conspiracy to defraud the U.S. and conspiracy to obstruct Congress’ certification of Joe Biden’s electoral victory. If convicted, Trump could face a lengthy prison sentence.

Trump is also facing two other criminal cases, one in New York related to hush money payments made during the 2016 campaign and another in Florida accusing him of hoarding classified documents. In both cases, similar protective orders have been imposed to prevent the public disclosure of evidence.

Trump has characterized all the cases against him as efforts to undermine his 2024 campaign. He has criticized the judge overseeing the election conspiracy case and indicated that his legal team will seek her recusal.

The trial is set to begin on January 2nd, with Trump’s legal team pushing for a swift resolution. In the meantime, the debate over the protective order continues, highlighting the tension between protecting sensitive information and preserving the defendant’s free speech rights.

Follow the AP’s coverage of former President Donald Trump for the latest updates on the case.

Original Story at apnews.com – 2023-08-11 14:55:00