Special Counsel Jack Smith has decided against holding a “mini-trial” to showcase evidence in Donald Trump’s federal election interference case ahead of the upcoming November election, as reported by Bloomberg sources.
This choice means that details regarding Trump’s federal indictment—where he faces allegations of trying to alter the 2020 election outcome—won’t be publicly unveiled before voters cast their ballots on November 5. This move is advantageous for Trump’s defense team, which has sought delays in the legal proceedings until post-election.
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Insiders, speaking anonymously, indicated that Smith’s team is now meticulously reassessing the case against Trump. The proceedings had been stalled for several months while awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision regarding Trump’s claim to presidential immunity against criminal charges.
In July, the justices determined that presidents enjoy full immunity for actions performed in office, sending the case back to U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan. She will decide which of Trump’s alleged actions in the indictment might now fall under this protection.
Earlier this month, Smith requested additional time to evaluate how the immunity ruling influences the case. Following this, Chutkan approved an extension, with a status report deadline set for August 30 and a conference on the report slated for September 5.
Legal analyst Rahmani noted that Smith’s team prefers to take their time, focusing on thoroughness. “Smith is a prosecutor, not a politician,” Rahmani stated, emphasizing that the goal is to conduct a comprehensive trial rather than rush through it, even if that means it could be politically charged.