Staff Reports
Fox News contributor and legal professor Jonathan Turley revealed alarmingly difficult circumstances in Jack Smith's case against former President Donald Trump. Time limits are the first obstacle. Turley questioned if a trial could be completed by March 4 before the November 2024 election. He warned that even if the panel issues a quick judgment, Trump's team could request a full court review and escalate to the Supreme Court, delaying the process.
Northwestern University law professor Steven G. Calabresi and others raise the second legal challenge. Turley said Smith's appointment is unconstitutional, calling it the ultimate “Hail Mary play.” The panel appears to be considering it, but they may not agree, making it a fascinating development.
Jonathan Turley Identifies Two Legal ‘Torpedoes’ That Could Completely Upend Jack Smith.
“Most of us express skepticism about the March 4th date. It seems even LESS likely now."
The trial’s schedule, coinciding with the crux of the primary season, was always expected to spark… pic.twitter.com/8pCXE8T5Sn
— TP Breaking Alerts (@tpbreaking) January 9, 2024
Smith asked the Supreme Court to resolve the matter quickly on December 11, including accusations of conspiracy to defraud the US and obstruction of an official proceeding against Trump. Critics, especially Trump's supporters, have termed the charge politically motivated and unjustified.
Smith's attempt to bypass the appeals court and go straight to the Supreme Court was perceived as aggressive and desperate. Unfortunately, the Court's recent ruling will delay the March 4, 2024 hearings.
Delays in the case could postpone it past the presidential election, which could have serious political consequences. Both sides can challenge the DC Circuit Court of Appeals' ruling to the highest court, a major Trump triumph.
Turley doubted the Supreme Court would speed up proceedings. He noticed that the Court did not appear as urgent as Smith, and it's unclear why expediency is needed. Turley also noted the Department of Justice's history of reluctance to hold elections-related cases, suggesting the Supreme Court may not share Smith's urgency and may not speed up the process.
Due of its timing during the primary season, the trial was expected to draw political attention. Trump denies all charges and claims his innocence, raising the stakes and drama.
