The Florida district judge presiding over Donald Trump’s classified documents trial, Judge Aileen Cannon, is facing criticism over a series of controversial rulings related to the case. Already under fire for delaying the trial, which now seems unlikely to occur before November’s election, Judge Cannon’s actions have prompted concerns about potential impacts on the trial’s outcome.
If Trump wins the election and regains the presidency, he could potentially direct the Justice Department to drop the case. Further criticism has emerged as Judge Cannon considers arguments that could derail the trial entirely. Trump has argued that Special Counsel Jack Smith, who brought charges against him in Florida and Washington, was unlawfully appointed.
Critics assert that Judge Cannon, a relatively inexperienced Trump appointee, has made rulings that appear favorable to him and has taken excessive time to resolve pre-trial matters.