Here’s what could be happening next.
In a recent analysis, legal expert Glenn Kirschner raised concerns that U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, appointed by former President Donald Trump, may be preparing to block the release of Volume 2 of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s report on Trump’s mishandling of classified documents. Kirschner, a former federal prosecutor, suggested that Judge Cannon could be preparing to do Trump another favor by preventing Congress from accessing sensitive information related to the case as the Department of Justice (DOJ) continues its appeal process.
Judge Cannon has already garnered attention for her rulings that many have interpreted as unusually favorable to Trump. These decisions have led to speculation that she could be a candidate for a future nomination to the Supreme Court, should Trump have the opportunity to make such an appointment. In this case, Cannon has dismissed charges against Trump’s former aides, Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, over their alleged involvement in the classified documents scandal. However, with that ruling now under appeal before the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, Cannon’s jurisdiction on the matter is being questioned.
In a recent hearing, Cannon expressed concerns about potential leaks of the report’s contents, questioning, “What can I do if somehow this report gets leaked?” Kirschner responded, pointing out that she has no authority over the case due to the ongoing appeals. The DOJ’s request to release Volume 2 to certain members of Congress has been complicated by these legal challenges, and it seems likely that Judge Cannon will block the move, citing concerns about leaks and ongoing litigation.
Trump, who faces allegations of mishandling classified documents after leaving office, has maintained that the charges are politically motivated. His legal team argues that the DOJ’s push to release the report now is a last-ditch effort by the Biden administration to damage his reputation before he takes office again. Cannon’s skepticism about the urgency of releasing the report highlights the political tensions surrounding the case and the wider debate over the handling of classified information.
With Trump’s legal battles continuing into his second term, the outcome of these cases may have significant implications, both legally and politically. As Judge Cannon deliberates on the DOJ’s request, her ruling will likely shape the ongoing fight between the Trump camp and federal authorities, with potential consequences for the upcoming presidential race and beyond.
