Federal prosecutors have requested a pause in their efforts to revive the criminal case against President-elect Donald Trump, who faces accusations of mishandling classified documents. Special Counsel Jack Smith filed the request on November 14, 2024, with the US Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, seeking time to evaluate the implications of Trump's impending return to office.
Smith indicated that the pause would allow the government to assess this unprecedented situation and determine the appropriate course of action. Trump, who was accused of illegally retaining classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate after leaving the presidency in 2021, has seen a federal judge dismiss the case earlier this year.
In addition to the classified documents case, Trump faces another federal case related to his attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, culminating in the January 6 Capitol riot. Prosecutors are considering how to conclude both cases, given the longstanding Department of Justice policy that suggests sitting presidents cannot be prosecuted.
Trump's legal troubles extend beyond federal charges, as he also confronts state-level cases in New York and Georgia. In New York, he has been found guilty of 34 felony charges related to falsifying business records linked to hush-money payments before the 2016 election. A sentencing hearing is set for November 26, but proceedings are paused as both sides assess the implications of Trump's return to the White House.
In Georgia, Trump is appealing charges related to efforts to reverse the election results. The case has faced complications due to a romantic relationship involving the Fulton County District Attorney and an outside prosecutor. A hearing regarding the disqualification of the DA is scheduled for December 5.
Trump is also appealing a decision that found him liable for sexually abusing and defaming E. Jean Carroll, as well as a separate judgment regarding fraudulent property value manipulation. The outcomes of these cases could significantly impact Trump's political future.