Federal Judge Aileen Cannon has set the trial date for the classified documents case against former President Donald Trump for May 2024, according to a new court filing.
The Story: The decision comes after special counsel Jack Smith had requested a December trial date but a blow to the former president who wanted the trial delayed until after the 2024 election.
- Cannon, a Trump appointee, had set a tentative trial date for August 14.
- In other court filings, prosecutors called for the case to proceed “expeditiously” but Cannon ruled Friday the special counsel’s request was “too accelerated”.
Why it matters: If the May 2024 date sticks, it will likely come after the winner of the Republican nomination is set but before the party conventions.
- Trump had wanted the trial delayed until after the 2024 presidential election, arguing that it would be improper for the special counsel to prosecute a presidential nominee.
- A Trump spokesperson did not immediately respond to Fwrd Axis’ request for comment.
This is a developing story and will be updated with more information.