The truth is coming out.
Former President Donald Trump is set to discover the identities of potential witnesses who may testify against him in a case accusing him of unlawfully retaining classified documents. The Justice Department initiated the process of sharing evidence with Trump’s defense team, known as discovery, on Wednesday night.
According to Newsweek, Special counsel Jack Smith’s team disclosed in a court filing that the evidence being provided includes the grand jury testimony of witnesses who are expected to testify on behalf of the government during the trial. While the filing did not disclose the specific witnesses or the contents of their testimonies, journalist Anna Bower noted on Twitter that this development would reveal which former lawyers, long-time employees, or members of Trump’s protective service detail could potentially testify against him.
The evidence submitted also encompasses copies of interviews with Trump that were conducted by non-government entities with his consent. Additionally, the prosecution team has obtained closed-circuit television footage, which will be included as part of the evidence.
Law professor Carl Tobias from the University of Richmond commented that the response from Jack Smith’s team reflects a high level of professionalism displayed throughout the case thus far. Tobias believes that the comprehensive and clear response will enable Trump and his legal team to comply with Judge Cannon’s scheduled trial date in August and adequately prepare his defense. Furthermore, Tobias expressed that the response supports Smith’s request for a speedy and fair trial.
To maintain the confidentiality of the evidence shared with Trump, a federal magistrate granted Smith’s request for a protective order on Monday. The order prohibits Trump and alleged co-conspirator Walt Nauta from disclosing the discovery materials or their contents to any person or entity, except for those directly involved in the defense, potential witnesses and their counsel, and individuals authorized by the court.
Trump, who is currently leading the 2024 Republican presidential nomination race, was indicted earlier this month on 37 felony charges, including 31 counts under the Espionage Act. These charges accuse him of intentionally retaining national defense information and refusing to comply with government demands to return it. Trump has pleaded not guilty and vehemently denied any wrongdoing.