A gag order imposed on former President Donald Trump in his D.C. election interference case is likely to be upheld but limited by a federal appeals court. The three-judge panel of the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals raised concerns about the scope of the gag order, questioning how it restricts Trump’s ability to respond to public criticism. Trump’s attorney argued that the gag order is unconstitutional and sets a dangerous precedent for restrictions on political speech. The judges also pressed the special counsel’s team on the broad restrictions in the gag order, but legal experts criticized Trump’s attorney’s performance. They argued that while defendants have free speech rights, there are limits when it comes to threatening witnesses and obstructing justice. Former federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann stated that it is common for defendants to be instructed not to commit crimes while on bail, including threatening witnesses. Former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele expressed frustration with Trump’s challenges to the gag order, stating that he needs to obey the judge’s instructions. Former Trump White House lawyer Ty Cobb predicted that Trump’s violation of the gag order could eventually lead to jail time.
Legal Experts Slam Trump Lawyer’s Attempts to “Stonewall” Gag Order Judges
