Trump’s Lawyers Request Delay in Case After Supreme Court Decision

Summary:
Following a recent Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity, former President Donald Trump’s legal team has requested U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to delay the proceedings in his classified documents case. Trump’s lawyers argue that the Supreme Court’s ruling, which grants Trump presumptive immunity for official acts taken while in office, undermines the special counsel’s stance that Trump has no immunity. They are planning to file motions addressing the ruling’s implications, including limits on evidence related to official acts.
Additionally, Trump’s attorneys have renewed a motion claiming special counsel Jack Smith was unconstitutionally appointed and requested a delay until these motions are resolved. This case is one of two criminal cases potentially impacted by the Supreme Court’s ruling. Trump’s legal team also highlighted a concurring opinion from Justice Clarence Thomas questioning the legitimacy of Smith’s appointment.
Trump, who pleaded not guilty to 40 criminal counts related to his handling of classified materials, has denied all charges. Both parties are set to return to court on July 22 for a status conference.
Furthermore, there are ongoing arguments over a proposed gag order requested by Smith to prevent Trump from making statements that could endanger law enforcement. The special counsel’s office contends that Trump’s statements have resulted in threats and harassment against public servants, while Trump’s lawyers argue that his speech is constitutionally protected and has not led to any threats. Judge Cannon is expected to rule on the gag order in the coming weeks.