The judge presiding over the federal classified documents case involving former President Trump has rejected prosecutors' request for a gag order on Trump. The case, centered in Florida, pertains to classified documents taken to Mar-a-Lago. While the case is currently on hold for several months, the judge ruled that Trump can continue making statements despite objections from special counsel Jack Smith.
Smith had sought a gag order last Friday, citing Trump's recent statements about the FBI as false, inflammatory, and potentially dangerous to law enforcement. Trump alleged that the FBI was prepared to harm him during the raid on Mar-a-Lago in August 2022, even though he was not present during the incident. The FBI clarified that agents are always armed during raids as a standard safety measure.
Smith argued that Trump's claims could incite threats and harassment against law enforcement involved in the case. However, the judge, appointed by Trump, denied the gag order request and postponed the trial from May 20th to a later date this summer.
Trump's legal team defended his right to free speech and opposed any restrictions on his ability to speak out. The trial delay has extended the timeline for the case, with no definitive date set for proceedings to resume.
Despite the controversy surrounding Trump's statements and the ongoing legal battle, the special counsel's office declined to provide any comments on the matter.
