Last updated on November 15th, 2023 at 05:55 am
In these latest news of today, former President Donald Trump is in the spotlight for demanding a judge’s recusal in his election interference case, John Eastman’s refusal to cooperate with the Capitol riot investigation, Rudy Giuliani highlighting Trump’s post-9/11 role, Trump’s influence on the Arizona Senate nomination, and his dark vision for a potential second term. These stories collectively illustrate Trump’s continued presence in legal and political matters, with implications for both his supporters and the broader political landscape.
1. Donald Trump demands recusal of Judge Chutkan in federal 2020 election interference case
Trump has formally demanded the recusal of U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan in his 2020 election subversion case in Washington, D.C. Trump’s legal team argues that Judge Chutkan’s prior statements, particularly those made during the sentencing of Jan. 6 defendants, suggest a preexisting bias against Trump. They claim that these remarks give the impression that Chutkan had already formed an opinion about Trump’s guilt before any charges were filed, which they consider disqualifying. Trump, who has pleaded not guilty to four criminal counts related to alleged efforts to remain in power following the 2020 election, has previously sought the recusal of judges in his criminal cases.
In response to Chutkan’s past comments and her history of issuing stringent sentences to Jan. 6 defendants, Trump’s attorneys argue that her public statements erode confidence in the fairness and impartiality of the trial. They state, “Public statements of this sort create a perception of prejudgment incompatible with our justice system.” Chutkan has not yet provided a response to the recusal motion. Source
2. Former Donald Trump adviser says no way he makes deal with Jack Smith
John Eastman’s attorney, Harvey Silverglate, has stated that his client, who provided legal counsel to then-President Donald Trump after the 2020 election, will not cooperate with Special Counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot and has no intention of making any plea agreements. Eastman’s legal advice, which suggested former Vice President Mike Pence could refuse to certify President Biden’s election, was described as “good faith legal advice” by Silverglate. He emphasized their confidence in the case and their intention to go to trial and appeal if necessary. The case, involving Trump and nearly two dozen co-defendants, has already become complex and could lead to extended courtroom battles. Some defendants are seeking speedy or separate trials, while others want to change the venue to influence the composition of the jury. The legal process could take years, with financial challenges for some defendants.
The bond agreement for Rudolph W. Giuliani, Trump’s former personal attorney, was negotiated separately, and the defense side seeks time to catch up as the state had a two-year head start in the case. Source
3. WATCH: Rudy Giuliani Highlight How Donald Trump Delivered For New York After 9/11
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, on the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, appeared on ‘The Benny Johnson Show’ to reflect on the tragic day and highlight the contributions of Donald Trump, who was a prominent New York City real estate developer at the time. Giuliani praised Trump’s deep involvement in the aftermath of the attacks, citing his background in construction as invaluable in sourcing materials and facilitating fundraising efforts. Trump played a crucial role in Giuliani’s charity initiative, the Twin Towers Fund, which raised $240 million to support the families of firefighters and police officers affected by the tragedy.
Giuliani also emphasized Trump’s role as an active volunteer among a group of businessmen who provided substantial help to the city after 9/11. He defended Trump against allegations of racism or anti-Semitism, noting his diverse friendships. Giuliani concluded that the intense political scrutiny of Trump was due to his effectiveness and the perceived threat he posed to established interests. Before entering politics, Trump was known as a compassionate businessman who made significant sacrifices to serve the nation, giving up his business ventures and luxurious lifestyle. Source
4. REPORT: Donald Trump Revealed His Pick For Arizona’s GOP Senate Nomination In Phone Call To Candidate
Donald Trump has reportedly expressed doubts about Blake Masters’ chances of winning a primary against Kari Lake, a former news anchor who ran unsuccessfully for governor in Arizona last year. Masters had been planning to run for Senate, but sources who requested anonymity shared details of a private conversation between Donald Trump and Masters. Trump, who has only endorsed one non-incumbent Republican Senate candidate in the current election cycle, seems cautious about backing Masters. In response, Kari Lake stated that she is considering entering the race and emphasized her loyalty to Trump. Sheriff Mark Lamb of Pinal County is already in the race.
Masters, who previously secured the GOP nomination but lost to Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly in a pivotal battleground state in the last election, is prepared to run independently if needed. Masters is concerned that another contentious primary, particularly against Lake, could harm the Republican Party’s chances of winning the Senate seat. Trump has expressed skepticism about Masters as a candidate, considering him a “bad candidate” in 2022. Both Lake and Masters have supported Trump’s claims of election fraud in the 2020 election. Lake has urged GOP candidates to suspend their campaigns and rally behind Trump, believing that his poll numbers will continue to rise despite legal challenges. Source
5. Donald Trump is explaining exactly how wild and extreme his second term would be
Donald Trump, at a South Dakota rally, presented a bleak vision of a potential second term, urging supporters to “fight like hell” to prevent losing the country. He accused President Joe Biden of orchestrating his indictment on 91 charges across four criminal cases, framing it as election interference. Donald Trump’s rhetoric suggests a second term could be more extreme and challenging to the rule of law than his first, with similarities to his previous attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.
Trump’s authoritarian language and refusal to accept the legitimacy of the 2020 election continue to shape Republican opinions, with a significant portion doubting the election’s validity. His approach poses challenges for voters and opponents as they consider the 2024 election landscape.
The news report also highlights potential risks for the GOP, as Trump’s behavior may alienate voters in key suburban swing districts. However, his strong lead in the Republican primary indicates a significant audience for his strongman politics. Trump’s words create narratives about political pressure on GOP leaders to consider a possible impeachment inquiry against President Biden, despite a lack of clear evidence of wrongdoing. These narratives deepen the political divide in the United States.
Overall, the report emphasizes how Trump’s rhetoric and authoritarian style remain central to his political appeal and strategy, shaping the political landscape and creating dilemmas for voters and leaders. Source