Special Counsel Requests Delay in Trump Case

Special counsel Jack Smith has filed a request to vacate the remaining deadlines in the criminal case against Donald Trump, citing the 'unprecedented circumstance' of his impending inauguration as President-elect on January 20, 2025. Smith's request aims to provide the Department of Justice time to determine the appropriate course of action, consistent with longstanding DOJ policy that advises against prosecuting a sitting president. The court filing acknowledges that the defense counsel does not object to this request, and a status report from Smith's team is expected by December 2. This development follows discussions within the Justice Department regarding how to wind down Trump's federal criminal cases, including those related to classified documents. Legal analysts have expressed mixed reactions, with some criticizing the handling of the situation. The implications of this move suggest both cases against Trump are unlikely to proceed further as he prepares to take office again.