AP: Federal Prosecutors Issue Stinging Rebuke Against Judge Cannon

Frustrated Prosecutors Urge Judge to Clarify Stance

Federal prosecutors have contested the approach of Judge Aileen Cannon in

Judge Aileen Cannon
Aileen M. Cannon, United States District Judge, Southern District of Florida

Former President Donald Trump’s Florida classified documents case specifically opposes potential jury instructions that they see as being based on a misinterpretation of the law. Cannon’s request for jury instructions under scenarios implying Trump could legally retain sensitive documents under the Presidential Records Act has sparked concern. Prosecutors argue the Act, distinguishing between personal and presidential records, is irrelevant in a case involving classified documents, which they assert cannot be considered personal. They stress that no evidence supports Trump’s claim of personal designation for these documents, countering the defense’s narrative.

The prosecutors’ frustration is evident as they await decisions on motions to dismiss and other disputes. The trial date is still unclear, raising concerns the case may linger past the upcoming presidential election. They urge Cannon to clarify her stance on referencing the Presidential Records Act in jury instructions and allow for an appeal if necessary. Meanwhile, Trump faces numerous felony charges for mishandling classified documents in one of four criminal cases against him, as he maintains his innocence.

Read the full article at The Associated Press.