Former President Trump Vows to Appeal Gag Order in 2020 Election Case

In the ongoing legal battle surrounding efforts to overturn the 2020 election, former President Trump has expressed his determination to appeal a recently issued gag order. Trump took to Truth Social, a social media platform he launched, to voice his frustrations and concern over the limitations placed on his ability to speak out.

Gag Order Upheld in J6 Case

An appeals court has predominantly upheld the gag order in relation to the J6 (January 6th) case, which restricts the former president from making certain statements targeted at potential witnesses. The panel of judges from the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals largely agreed with Judge Tanya Chutkan’s previous ruling, resulting in limitations being placed on Trump’s ability to discuss the case publicly.

Curbing Freedom of Speech?

Trump voiced his concerns about the potential infringement on his First Amendment rights. He highlighted the disparity in treatment, pointing out that individuals are able to speak violently or attack him without restraint, while he is effectively silenced. His post on Truth Social questioned the impact this has on our country and the First Amendment itself.

Intent to Interfere

The judges’ decision blocks Trump from making statements that are deemed to have the intent to interfere with the case. The former president is prohibited from engaging in speech that would materially interfere with the proceedings or influence others to do so. However, Special Counsel Jack Smith, a court staff member, is no longer protected by the gag order, allowing Trump to direct his verbal criticisms at him.

Appeal Decision: Supreme Court or D.C. Circuit Court?

Although Trump expressed his intent to appeal the gag order, he did not specify whether he would take the matter directly to the Supreme Court or first seek relief from the full D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. The decision on which course of action to pursue remains unclear.

Legal Proceedings and Testimony

This ruling comes amidst a busy legal period for the former president. In addition to dealing with the 2020 election case, Trump is scheduled to testify in a civil fraud case in New York on Monday.

Read More of this Story at thehill.com – 2023-12-09 00:59:00

Trump pledges to challenge judge’s ruling on gag order in January 6th case