Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump responded to the reimposition of a gag order in his federal election interference trial with his usual candor and wit. U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan made the decision on Sunday to maintain the gag order against Trump. Unsurprisingly, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to express his frustration.
Trump Goes Nuclear After Federal Judge Reimposes Gag Order: 'It Will Not Stand!' via @WestJournalism https://t.co/5C5enWL5Np
— Kenny, USA Patriot (@kennethy69) October 30, 2023
In a post, he stated, “The Corrupt Biden Administration just took away my First Amendment Right To Free Speech. NOT CONSTITUTIONAL! MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.” Trump was clearly not holding back his opinions on the matter.
In a follow-up post, he criticized Judge Chutkan, claiming that she should have recused herself due to her “blatant and open loathing” of him. Trump argued that the gag order would put him at a disadvantage against his political and prosecutorial opponents. He referred to the order as “unthinkable” and “illegally and unconstitutionally” taking away his First Amendment right.
Despite the setback, Trump remained determined and vowed to appeal the decision. He expressed his disbelief that the leading candidate in the presidential race would be restricted from campaigning in a free and open manner.
Judge Chutkan initially imposed the gag order at the request of special prosecutor Jack Smith. In her ruling, she explained that the order would remain in effect during Trump’s legal team’s appeal. The order prohibits Trump from making any public statements that target the special counsel, defense counsel, court staff, or any foreseeable witnesses.
Chutkan justified the gag order by stating that First Amendment rights could be curtailed when they pose significant threats to the integrity of judicial proceedings. She also argued that the ban could prevent witness intimidation, which she considered necessary based on the evidence in the case.
While Trump might not be able to freely express himself on the topic, Judge Chutkan did provide examples of what statements would be allowed under the gag order. This includes a Truth Social post by Trump on Oct. 20, where he raised concerns about the alleged election rigging by the Biden administration.
However, another post from Trump on Truth Social was deemed to violate the gag order. In this post, Trump questioned the motives of Mark Meadows and made remarks that could be interpreted as an attempt to influence or prevent a witness’s participation in the case.
Ultimately, Trump’s fight against the gag order continues as he faces four felony charges related to his challenge of the 2020 election results and the Capitol incursion. Undeterred, Trump remains focused on his presidential campaign, eager to make America great again.
