Former federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann has raised concerns over a disturbing aspect of Donald Trump’s attempt to appeal the gag order in his 2020 election interference case. The order, issued by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, prohibits the former president from publicly criticizing prosecutors, court staff, and potential witnesses. Although the order was temporarily lifted for Chutkan to review an appeal, it was reinstated due to further inflammatory remarks from Trump.
During an interview with MSNBC’s Nicolle Wallace, Weissmann highlighted a troubling statement made by Trump’s legal team in their appeal brief. According to Weissmann, the statement essentially conveyed Trump’s belief that he should not be held responsible if his words incite violence. He explained, “If there is violence, that’s on the people who take up my words and commit the violence. It’s not on me, Donald Trump.”
Weissmann expressed his deep concern over Trump’s position, stating, “I can say whatever I want, and if people act on it, don’t look at me.” He emphasized that a responsible individual who aims to avoid violence and intimidation would take measures to prevent their words from being used in such a manner. He added, “Any normal person would be trying to make sure that they wouldn’t in any way be responsible for harming another person,” and emphasized that the government is correctly asserting that Trump’s words are likely to have consequences.
The tweet shared by Deadline White House includes Weissmann’s remarks, underscoring the chilling nature of Trump’s stance.
