Lawyers representing former US President Donald Trump have requested a postponement of his federal trial for mishandling classified documents until after the 2024 election. In a court filing on Monday, they argued that the unique nature of the case necessitates a careful and thorough approach rather than a rushed one.
The attorneys stated in their request that the court should allow sufficient time for a clearer understanding of the motions that will be filed, an assessment of a realistic timeline for discovery and pre-trial proceedings, and the completion of the security clearance process.
Last month, Trump pleaded not guilty to 37 felony charges related to the alleged mishandling of classified documents after his presidency ended. He has consistently maintained that he had the right to retain the documents in question, asserting that they were no longer classified when he took them with him. Trump recently explained to Fox News that he was unable to return the files due to time constraints when approached by federal officials.
The FBI recovered over 300 documents, many of which were obtained during a controversial raid on Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in August of the previous year. These documents reportedly contained classified national security information concerning nuclear secrets, defense capabilities, and a potential attack plan against Iran.
The Republican frontrunner has criticized the case against him as an “abuse of power,” a “hoax,” and a “witch hunt.” Following the indictment, Trump’s lead in the polls over his closest rival for the 2024 Republican nomination, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, doubled, and he has consistently polled ahead of incumbent President Joe Biden.
In April, Trump was also indicted by the state of New York on 34 counts of falsifying business records in relation to an alleged payment of $130,000 to adult film actress Stormy Daniels as hush money. The charges prompted a surge in public support, including significant campaign contributions and numerous volunteer applications.
Trump has embraced the legal campaign against him, referring to the indictments as a symbol of bravery in a speech last month. He is the first former US president to face federal indictment.
Special Counsel Jack Smith, responsible for the documents case, requested Judge Bruce Reinhart last month to reschedule the trial from its original date in August to December. He argued that neither the prosecution nor the defense would have sufficient time to prepare under the current schedule, particularly in obtaining the required security clearances. The judge recently granted Smith’s request to prevent Trump and his co-defendant Walt Nauta from disclosing evidence discovered during the discovery process.
