Podcasts > Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News > Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

By Rachel Maddow

Dive into the intricate world of high-profile legal battles and political discourse with "Rachel Maddow Presents: Déjà News," featuring insights from experts like Lawrence O'Donnell, Andrew Weissmann, Neal Katyal, and more. This episode dissects a series of developments surrounding Donald Trump, including the denial of his motion to dismiss a case about classified documents, and the proposition by the Manhattan DA for a delay in the hush money case due to newly surfaced evidence. The legal expertise of the speakers sheds light on the complexities and potential effects of these legal manoeuvres on the proceedings.

Political strategies and human rights are also at the forefront as Vice President Kamala Harris's advocacy for reproductive rights is highlighted alongside Senator Chuck Schumer's call for new Israeli elections and a revitalized peace process. The episode captures pivotal moments with guest appearances from figures like Kamala Harris and Barbara Lee who speak on personal experiences and Senator Schumer's stance on international relations, offering a multifaceted perspective on pressing issues that extend from the United States judiciary to global diplomatic relations.

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Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

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Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

1-Page Summary

Judge denies Trump's motion to dismiss Mar-a-Lago document case, encourages motion to be revived later

Federal Judge Aileen Mercedes Cannon has denied Donald Trump's motion to dismiss the criminal case regarding his handling of classified documents, indicating the possibility for the issue to be raised again later. The motion's rejection is without prejudice, meaning Trump can reintroduce it during later stages of the legal process. Legal experts express varying concerns about the implications of this decision, with some viewing it as a delay that could potentially prolong court proceedings.

Manhattan DA suggests 30-day delay in Trump hush money case due to new evidence

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office, led by Alvin Bragg, proposes a 30-day delay in Donald Trump's case centered on hush money payments to Stormy Daniels. This is in light of new evidence provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office, consisting of tens of thousands of pages of documents that require review for relevancy. The defense's need to review these documents could contribute to further postponements of the trial.

Kamala Harris visits abortion clinic, advocates for reproductive rights

Vice President Kamala Harris has visited a Planned Parenthood clinic in Minnesota, highlighting the negative impacts of abortion bans and the consequential closure of clinics. She decried the restrictions as "outrageous" and "immoral," arguing for women to be trusted with their health decisions. Representative Barbara Lee supported Harris's stance by sharing her personal abortion experience, illustrating the dangers women faced prior to Roe v. Wade and the ongoing struggles for reproductive access.

Schumer calls for Israel elections and peace process, breaks with Netanyahu

Senator Chuck Schumer publicly diverges from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies, calling for new Israeli elections and a refreshment of the peace process between Israel and Palestine. Schumer criticizes Netanyahu's stance against a Palestinian state, describes the humanitarian issues in Gaza, and suggests that Netanyahu has prioritized political survival over the nation's wellbeing. The discussion includes concerns that Trump's potential re-election could perpetuate the conflict and support Netanyahu's current agenda.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • When a court denies a motion without prejudice, it means the motion can be brought up again at a later stage of the legal process. This decision allows the party to address any deficiencies in the motion and potentially refile it in the future. It does not prevent the party from pursuing the same argument again, providing an opportunity for further legal action. The rejection without prejudice keeps the option open for the motion to be revived later in the proceedings.
  • In the context of Trump's hush money case, new evidence provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office consists of tens of thousands of pages of documents. This evidence needs to be reviewed to determine its relevance to the case. The defense requires time to assess these documents, which could lead to a delay in the trial proceedings. The significance of this new evidence lies in its potential impact on the legal arguments and strategies of both the prosecution and defense.
  • Kamala Harris's visit to a Planned Parenthood clinic in Minnesota was to advocate for reproductive rights and highlight the impact of abortion restrictions on women's healthcare choices. She emphasized the importance of trusting women to make decisions about their own bodies and criticized the closure of clinics due to restrictive laws. Harris's visit aimed to draw attention to the ongoing challenges faced by women in accessing reproductive healthcare services.
  • Senator Chuck Schumer has publicly expressed a different viewpoint from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding Israel's policies. Schumer advocates for new Israeli elections and a revitalization of the peace process with Palestine. He criticizes Netanyahu's opposition to a Palestinian state and highlights humanitarian concerns in Gaza. Schumer's stance suggests a shift away from Netanyahu's approach towards a more proactive engagement in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  • The concerns about potential conflict perpetuation under Trump's re-election and support for Netanyahu's agenda stem from fears that Trump's policies could align closely with Netanyahu's hardline approach towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, potentially hindering progress towards peace in the region. Critics worry that a continuation of Netanyahu's strategies, which have faced international criticism, could be further emboldened by a Trump administration, leading to prolonged tensions and challenges in resolving the longstanding conflict.

Counterarguments

  • Concerns about the delay in Trump's legal cases could be countered by the argument that due process requires thorough examination of evidence, which can take time, and that justice should not be rushed at the expense of fairness.
  • The suggestion that the Manhattan DA's proposed delay could lead to further postponements might be met with the perspective that new evidence could be crucial for a fair trial, and that both the prosecution and defense must be given adequate time to review materials to ensure the integrity of the legal process.
  • While Vice President Kamala Harris advocates for reproductive rights, an alternative viewpoint could be that some individuals believe in the sanctity of life from conception and thus support restrictions on abortion, emphasizing the rights of the unborn.
  • Senator Schumer's call for new Israeli elections and a refreshed peace process might be challenged by those who support Prime Minister Netanyahu's policies, arguing that his approach is necessary for the security and stability of Israel in a complex geopolitical region.
  • The criticism of Netanyahu's prioritization of political survival could be countered by supporters who argue that his political strategies are in the interest of national security and reflect the will of the voters who elected him.
  • The concern about Trump's potential re-election perpetuating the conflict between Israel and Palestine could be met with the argument that U.S. foreign policy should support allies and that Trump's approach is in line with the desires of a significant portion of the American electorate who may prioritize a strong stance in international relations.

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Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

Judge denies Trump's motion to dismiss Mar-a-Lago document case, encourages motion to be revived later

Federal Judge Aileen Mercedes Cannon denies Donald Trump's motion to dismiss the criminal case associated with his possession of classified documents, hinting at revisiting the matter in the future.

Judge denies dismissal but leaves door open for Trump to raise issue again

The case, which implicates Trump in an alleged violation of the Espionage Act, sees no grounds for dismissal at this point according to Judge Cannon. Though claiming the law is too vague, Trump's motion for dismissal is rejected without prejudice, granting him a chance to address the same issue again later in the legal proceedings.

Judge Cannon indicates that there may be a more suitable time to consider the matter, perhaps during jury selection or in formulating jury instruction, briefing, or other motions. This approach preserves the option for the motion to resurface later, essentially prompting a postponement rather than a complete dismissal of Trump's concerns.

Bradley Moss expresses frustration with the pace of the judiciary process, noting Judge Cannon's hesitation to rule on pretrial motions regarding the Presidential ...

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Judge denies Trump's motion to dismiss Mar-a-Lago document case, encourages motion to be revived later

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Presidential Records Act is a federal law that governs the official records created by the President and his staff while in office. It requires the preservation of these records and their eventual transfer to the National Archives for historical purposes. In the context of legal proceedings involving a former President like Donald Trump, the act could be relevant if there are disputes over the handling or disclosure of official records related to the case. Compliance with the Presidential Records Act is crucial for transparency, accountability, and the preservation of historical documentation from presidential administrations. In this case, the mention of pretrial motions regarding the act suggests that issues related to official records may be pertinent to the criminal case against Trump.
  • Bradley Moss is a legal expert who is frustrated with the slow progress of the legal proceedings related to the case in ...

Counterarguments

  • The judge's decision to deny the motion to dismiss without prejudice is a standard legal procedure, allowing for due process and thorough examination of the case.
  • The Espionage Act, while complex, has been applied in previous cases, and its application here does not necessarily mean it is too vague to enforce.
  • The opportunity for Trump to raise the issue again is not unusual in legal proceedings and ensures that all arguments can be considered at the appropriate time.
  • Delays in the judiciary process can be attributed to the complexity of the case and the need to ensure a fair trial, rather than inefficiency or intentional stalling.
  • Concerns about the legal proceedings being drawn out may overlook the importance of a meticulous approach to ensure justice is served.
  • The suggestion that delays could be a s ...

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Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

Manhattan DA suggests 30-day delay in Trump hush money case due to new evidence

Lawrence O'Donnell reports significant developments in the criminal trial of Donald Trump regarding hush money payments.

Newly obtained evidence from US Attorney's office requires review

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has suggested a 30-day delay in the start of the case against Donald Trump, which involves business fraud and related hush money payments to Stormy Daniels. This suggestion of the delay is based on the fact that the DA's office recently received a considerable amount of new evidence from the U.S. Attorney's Office in Manhattan. Bragg cites the production of approximately 73,000 pages of records by the United States Attorney's Office since March 4th, with an additional 31,000 pages already turned over and more expected in the following week.

Despite the large number of documents, it is suggested that only 172 pages of the newly obtained material appear relevant to Trump's case. Weissmann echoes the significance of the document turnover, acknowledging the 31,000 documents from t ...

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Manhattan DA suggests 30-day delay in Trump hush money case due to new evidence

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Hush money payments to Stormy Daniels were made to keep her from publicly discussing an alleged affair with Donald Trump. These payments were made through Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, in the lead-up to the 2016 presidential election. The controversy surrounding these payments has led to legal scrutiny and investigations into potential campaign finance violations and other related issues.
  • The Southern District of New York is a federal judicial district that covers several counties in the state, including New York City. It is known for handling high-profile c ...

Counterarguments

  • The suggestion of a 30-day delay is a standard legal procedure when new evidence is introduced, and it is not necessarily indicative of any wrongdoing or inefficiency on the part of the DA's office or the defense.
  • The volume of documents received (73,000 pages) may indicate thoroughness in the investigation, and the fact that only 172 pages are relevant does not necessarily reflect on the quality of the evidence or the investigation.
  • The defense's need for time to review the documents is a fundamental part of the right to a fair trial, and it is not fair to assume that this need for time is a deliberate tactic to delay the trial.
  • It is the responsibility of the prosecution to provide evidence in a timely manner, and any delay in obtaining evidence may not be attributable to Tru ...

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Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

Kamala Harris visits abortion clinic, advocates for reproductive rights

Vice President Kamala Harris is actively advocating for reproductive rights and has made a historic visit to a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Highlights clinic closures due to abortion bans

During her visit, part of her Fight for Reproductive Freedom tour, Harris discussed the significant impact of the Dobbs decision on clinic operations. She noted that it led to the shutdown of clinics like the one she visited, severely limiting access to essential reproductive health care services, including abortion care and cancer screenings.

Calls restrictions "outrageous and immoral"

Describing the restriction on reproductive rights as "outrageous" and "immoral," Harris criticized the attacks on individuals' rights to make decisions about their bodies. She underscored that one of the potentially intended consequences of the Dobbs decision was the closure of state clinics that provide reproductive care in states that have banned or restricted access to such services.

Says we must "trust women"

Harris emphasized the importance of trusting women to make their own health decisions, and criticized elected leaders who believe they know what's better for women.

Barbara Lee shares experience with illegal abortion

In solidarity with Harris’s advocacy, Democratic Representative Barbara Lee shared her personal experience of undergoing an illegal abortion as a teenager in Mexico. Lee described the procedure as terrifying ...

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Kamala Harris visits abortion clinic, advocates for reproductive rights

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Dobbs decision, referring to the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, is a pivotal abortion case currently before the U.S. Supreme Court. It challenges the constitutionality of a Mississippi law that bans most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. The decision's potential impact includes the possibility of overturning or severely weakening the precedent set by Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion nationwide in 1973. This case has significant implications for reproductive rights and access to abortion services in the United States.
  • St. Paul, Minnesota, has become a destination for women from states with restrictive abortion laws because it still offers more accessible reproductive health services, ...

Counterarguments

  • The Dobbs decision reflects a perspective that the issue of abortion should be decided by individual states rather than at the federal level, allowing for a diversity of approaches based on the values and beliefs of the local populations.
  • Some argue that advocating for reproductive rights should also include support for alternatives to abortion, such as adoption services, and resources for women who choose to carry their pregnancies to term.
  • Critics of Planned Parenthood may argue that the organization should not be the central focus of reproductive health policy, suggesting that a broader range of health providers should be supported and funded.
  • The term "reproductive rights" can be seen as excluding the rights of the unborn, and some people believe that the rights of the fetus should also be considered in discussions about abortion.
  • The phrase "trust women" might be challenged by those who believe that ethical decisions about life should not be left to individual discretion alone, but should also involve societal and moral considerations.
  • The narrative around illegal abortions may be countered by advocating for improved ...

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Judge Cannon denies Trump’s motion to dismiss classified docs case

Schumer calls for Israel elections and peace process, breaks with Netanyahu

Senator Chuck Schumer, historically a staunch supporter of Israel, takes a bold stance against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling for his replacement and a renewed focus on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

Denounces rejection of Palestinian statehood by Netanyahu government

Schumer candidly criticizes Netanyahu's clear rejection of a Palestinian state, warning that this denial is detrimental not only to Palestinians but also to the larger goal of global peace. His sentiments reflect a broader frustration within the United States, further articulated by Ben Rhodes, at the Israeli government's unwillingness to even consider a Palestinian state under Netanyahu’s leadership.

Calls for immediate ceasefire and release of hostages

Amidst a worsening conflict, Schumer calls for a temporary ceasefire. His objective is facilitating the release of hostages, a move implied by Lawrence O'Donnell to be one of the first steps towards easing tensions.

Criticizes humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza

Describing the situation in Gaza as a humanitarian catastrophe, Schumer illustrates a bleak picture of human suffering, mass displacement, and the tragic loss of civilian lives. Richard Stengel echoes Schumer’s depiction of the crisis, drawing attention to the innocent people suffering in Gaza.

Contends Netanyahu has "lost his way"

Schumer contends that Netanyahu has fallen off the right path, prioritizing his political longevity over the welfare of Israel. Schumer's assertion, supported by Stengel, is that Netanyahu’s actions necessitate new elections ...

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Schumer calls for Israel elections and peace process, breaks with Netanyahu

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Ben Rhodes is a former U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications under President Barack Obama. He played a key role in shaping Obama's foreign policy and was known for his involvement in the Iran nuclear deal negotiations. Rhodes is also a prominent author and commentator on international affairs.
  • Lawrence O'Donnell is an American television anchor, actor, author, and liberal political commentator. He hosts a program on MSNBC called The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell. O'Donnell has a background in politics, having worked as an aide to U.S. Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan and as staff director for the Senate Finance Committee. He describes himself as a "practical European socialist."
  • Richard Stengel is an American editor, author, and former government official who served as Time magazine's managing editor and as President Obama's Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs. He has written books and collaborated with Nelson Mandela on his autobiography. Stengel has expertise in countering disinformation and propaganda.
  • Netanyahu's initiatives are seen as advancing an extremist project due to his strong opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state, which is a key component of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. This stance is considered extreme because it diverges from the international consensus that a two-state solution is necessary for lasting peace in the region. Critics argue that Netanyahu's policies and actions align more with hardline positions that prioritize Israeli interests over broader peace efforts. This perception has led to concerns about the direction of Israeli politics under his leadership.
  • The implications of U.S. politics on Israel's future highlight how decisions and actions taken by the U.S. government can significantly influence the direction and outcomes of Israeli policies and conflicts. This influence can manifest through diplomatic support, financial aid, and political pressure exerted by the U.S. administration on Israel. The relationship between the U.S. and Israel is complex and deeply intertwined, with shifts in U.S. leadership often impacting the dynamics of Israeli politics and peace efforts in the region. Understanding this relationship is crucial in analyzing the broader context of international relations and conflicts involving Israel.
  • The suggestion that the re-election of Donald Trump could embolden Netanyahu implies that Trump's polic ...

Counterarguments

  • Schumer's call for Israeli elections may be seen as interference in another nation's sovereignty, as election timing is typically a domestic matter.
  • Some may argue that Netanyahu's rejection of Palestinian statehood is a defensive measure, prioritizing the security concerns of Israel in a complex geopolitical landscape.
  • A call for an immediate ceasefire and release of hostages, while noble, may oversimplify the situation and ignore the strategic and security considerations that both sides are weighing.
  • While the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, some may point out that the responsibility is shared and complex, involving the actions of multiple parties including Hamas, which governs Gaza.
  • The contention that Netanyahu has "lost his way" is subjective ...

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