Jack Smith asks judge to block Trump from making ‘partisan political attacks’ during trial
Jack Smith, a prominent lawyer and civil rights advocate, has asked a federal judge to prohibit President Donald Trump from making “partisan political attacks” during the trial of a legal challenge to the president’s financial records.
Smith argued that allowing Trump to rail against the lawsuit would interfere with the judicial process and “serve only to further Mr. Trump’s political interests at the expense of judicial integrity.” He argued that such public outbursts could prejudice jurors and the outcome of the trial.
In response to the motion, a Trump spokesperson called the motion “a desperate attempt by a lawyer trying to score cheap political points.”
This action by Smith is not unique, as other plaintiffs and attorneys have similarly sought protective orders against Trump or other government officials from making comments that could bias the judicial process. The judge or other court officials have the authority to issue such orders.
It remains to be seen what the judge in this case will decide. However, this motion highlights the need for political leaders to respect the separation of powers between the executive and judicial branches of government. As Smith noted in his motion, “The President of the United States has access to ample means outside of court to express opinions and reflect the power and support of his office.”