U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan has paused all deadlines in the election interference case against President-elect Donald Trump. This decision follows news that federal prosecutors may drop charges against Trump.
A Department of Justice (DOJ) source revealed that Special Counsel Jack Smith plans to close both of Trump’s federal cases. The move aligns with a long-standing DOJ policy that bars prosecuting a sitting president.
On Friday, Smith filed a motion requesting the court vacate all upcoming deadlines. He argued the government needs time to review the unique situation and decide on next steps.
“The Government respectfully requests that the Court vacate the remaining deadlines in the pretrial schedule to afford the Government time to assess this unprecedented circumstance and determine the appropriate course going forward, consistent with Department of Justice policy,” Smith wrote in his filing.
Trump Campaign Demands Charges Be Dropped
The Trump campaign reacted swiftly, calling for the complete dismissal of charges. Campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung emphasized Trump’s re-election and the public’s call for unity.
“President Trump has been re-elected by the American people with an overwhelming mandate to Make America Great Again,” Cheung stated. “It’s now clear that Americans want an immediate end to the weaponization of our justice system.” He also referenced Trump’s victory speech, urging the nation to unify and work for the common good.
Trump’s supporters argue that pursuing charges violates DOJ policy and have called for the case’s dismissal.
Federal Prosecutors Weigh Next Steps
Federal prosecutors are expected to announce their next move in the coming weeks. Both of Trump’s federal cases face impending deadlines.
In Washington, D.C., Trump is charged with election interference and obstructing Congress’s certification of the 2020 Electoral College votes. Judge Chutkan had been reviewing Trump’s potential immunity claim based on a Supreme Court ruling from July.
In a separate case, Trump faces charges for allegedly keeping classified documents after his presidency. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon had initially dismissed the charges, citing an improper appointment of Jack Smith. However, the DOJ has appealed her decision to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
Prosecutors must now determine if they will proceed with charges or drop the cases in line with DOJ policy. A final decision is expected soon.