Jack Smith, the special counsel handling the documents investigation into former President Donald J. Trump, vowed to seek “a speedy trial.” But that will be up to Judge Aileen M. Cannon, who will wield considerable power over its calendar, evidence and jury.
Last year, Judge Cannon, a Trump appointee, briefly disrupted the documents investigation by issuing rulings favorable to him when he challenged the F.B.I.’s search of his Florida club and estate, Mar-a-Lago, before a conservative appeals court ruled that she never had legal authority to intervene.
It also is not clear whether she will refer some pretrial motions to a magistrate judge who works under her.
But here is a closer look at how her decisions as the judge presiding over the trial — like on what can be included and excluded — could affect the case.
If the trial can be put off until after the 2024 presidential election, he or another Republican nominee could enter office and shut down the case.
Persons:
Jack Smith, Donald J, Trump, Judge Aileen M, Cannon, Judge Cannon
Organizations:
Trump, Republican
Locations:
Florida, Mar