Trump Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Charges
In a significant development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has entered a plea of not guilty to federal criminal charges. The charges allege that Trump unlawfully retained national-security documents after leaving office and lied to officials who sought to recover them. The plea was entered before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman in a federal court in Miami.
Legal Battle Ahead Amid 2024 Presidential Campaign
This plea sets the stage for a legal battle that is likely to unfold over the coming months. This comes as Trump campaigns to reclaim the presidency in the November 2024 election. Legal experts suggest that it could be a year or more before a trial takes place. Trump, wearing a blue suit and a red tie, did not speak during the 47-minute hearing.
Trump’s Aide Also Charged
Trump’s aide, Walt Nauta, who is also charged in the case, appeared in court alongside Trump. However, Nauta will not have to enter a plea until June 27 because he does not have a local lawyer. He, too, was released without having to post bond and was ordered not to talk to other witnesses.
Supporters Rally as Trump Departs Courthouse
As Trump’s motorcade departed the courthouse, supporters chanted “We love Trump”. This was Trump’s second courtroom visit in recent months. In April, he pleaded not guilty to state charges in New York stemming from a hush-money payment to a porn star. Trump is the first former president to be charged with federal crimes.
Trump Accuses Biden Administration of Targeting Him
Trump has repeatedly proclaimed his innocence and accuses Democratic President Joe Biden’s administration of targeting him. During a stop at a Cuban restaurant after the hearing, Trump told supporters that the United States was “rigged,” “corrupt” and “in decline.”
Charges Include Violations of the Espionage Act
Trump faces charges that include violations of the Espionage Act, which criminalizes unauthorized possession of defense information, and conspiracy to obstruct justice. If convicted, he could face a maximum of 20 years in prison. The indictment alleges that Trump conspired with Nauta to keep classified documents and hide them from investigators. Nauta has worked for Trump at the White House and at Mar-a-Lago.
Republican Voters, Rivals Line Up Behind Trump
Despite Trump’s legal woes, his standing with Republican voters remains strong. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Monday showed Trump still led rivals for the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential election by a wide margin, and 81% of Republican voters viewing the charges as politically motivated.