Judge delays Trump’s trial over mishandling of classified documents

A judge has decided to postpone the federal trial of former President Donald Trump in Florida concerning his alleged mishandling of classified documents while in office. US District Judge Aileen Cannon has delayed setting a new trial date until significant questions regarding trial evidence are resolved. This decision has canceled the previously set start date of 20 May 2024, making it unlikely for the trial to commence before the 5 November US election. Trump’s attorneys have suggested holding the trial after the Presidential rematch with Joe Biden, whereas prosecutors are pushing for the trial to take place this year. However, disputes over classified evidence presentation have caused delays in the proceedings. Trump, along with his personal aide Walt Nauta and property manager Carlos de Oliveira, faces 40 felony counts, including conspiracy to obstruct justice and making false statements. The trial’s date remains uncertain as the judge has scheduled additional hearings to address pending concerns before establishing a new trial date in the future. Trump is also involved in three other criminal cases and awaiting a Supreme Court ruling on his claims of presidential immunity, which could potentially impact all ongoing criminal proceedings against him.