Staff Reports
An intriguing twist unfolded this week in the Georgia election interference case involving former President Donald Trump, shedding light on a co-defendant’s donation to Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee.
Records revealed that Ray Smith III, a co-defendant in the case, made a $150 donation to McAfee’s campaign in May of 2023, as initially reported by Fox News. McAfee, who faced a primary election challenge from civil rights attorney Robert Patillo, ultimately secured his position thanks to the support from Republican Gov. Brian Kemp.
Trump co-defendant Ray Smith III gave Judge McAfee $150 campaign donation – Conservative Institute https://t.co/hvAwsMq5kI
— s norquist (@norquist_s) July 12, 2024
McAfee’s involvement in the high-profile case against Trump raised eyebrows, particularly when revelations surfaced about special prosecutor Nathan Wade’s alleged affair with District Attorney Fani Willis, a factor that threw the proceedings into disarray.
One of the key co-defendants, Smith, pleaded not guilty to charges of influencing state lawmakers to appoint pro-Trump electors, questioning the legitimacy of President Biden’s victory in 2020. Smith’s active participation in challenging the election results underscored the contentious nature of the case.
Amidst the legal drama surrounding Willis and Wade’s relationship, the case’s progress hit roadblocks, prompting Trump’s legal team to challenge Willis’ continued involvement. The Georgia Court of Appeals will soon determine if Willis should be disqualified from the case, with oral arguments set to commence in October.
The delay in the legal proceedings was viewed as a strategic win for Trump, allowing him to navigate the legal landscape in his favor as he gears up for upcoming challenges.
