Judge Tanya Chutkan denied former President Donald Trump’s request to delay the unsealing of court records and exhibits in the 2020 election interference case, ensuring that the evidence submitted by the government would be released on Friday. Chutkan emphasized the public’s right to access criminal court proceedings and found Trump’s arguments for continued sealing unpersuasive.
Special counsel Jack Smith’s appendix and brief had previously been redacted for privacy, but Trump’s opposition to further disclosures was overruled by Chutkan. Trump’s lawyers had argued against releasing more information, claiming it could interfere with the upcoming election, but Chutkan dismissed these concerns and emphasized the court’s commitment to transparency.
The case against Trump was revived in August after the Supreme Court ruled that former presidents have some immunity from criminal charges related to official acts while in office. Prosecutors sought a new indictment against Trump with narrower allegations, removing references to his discussions with Justice Department officials. Trump maintains his innocence in the face of the charges.
Moving forward, the court will decide whether the conduct alleged in the indictment is protected by presidential immunity. Trump’s lawyers plan to challenge the case based on this immunity and other grounds. The public can expect the release of additional information related to the case, as ordered by the court.
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