Former President Donald Trump expressed elation after US District Judge Aileen Cannon declared the appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith unconstitutional, dismissing the classified documents case against him in Florida. The ruling represents a significant victory for Trump, signaling a setback for the Justice Department's ongoing investigations.
Former President Donald Trump has expressed jubilation after a federal judge dismissed the classified documents case against him in Florida. On Monday, US District Judge Aileen Cannon ruled that the Justice Department's appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith was unconstitutional, arguing that he lacked the necessary qualifications and authority to prosecute the case.
Trump 'Thrilled' as Judge Dismisses Classified Documents Case
The indictment accused Trump of mishandling classified documents after he left office. However, Judge Cannon cited the Appointments Clause of the Constitution, which mandates that officers of the United States must be appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. Smith, a private citizen, met neither requirement.
The decision is a major setback for the Justice Department, which has been investigating Trump's post-presidential conduct. Smith was appointed to lead the classified documents case as well as another investigation into Trump's alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election.
Trump 'Thrilled' as Judge Dismisses Classified Documents Case
Trump celebrated the ruling, calling it a "great victory" and a vindication of his innocence. The Justice Department, however, is expected to appeal the decision, setting the stage for a potential battle in the higher courts.
Judge Cannon's ruling is based on a meticulous 93-page opinion, in which she methodically dismantled the arguments presented by the Justice Department. She emphasized the significance of the Appointments Clause, which ensures the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government.
Trump 'Thrilled' as Judge Dismisses Classified Documents Case
Moreover, Cannon pointed to the Appropriations Clause, which prohibits the government from spending money without congressional approval. She noted that the Justice Department had spent $12 million on Smith's investigation without authorization from Congress.
Cannon's ruling is supported by the arguments of former Attorneys General Edwin Meese and Michael Mukasey, who filed an amicus brief in the case. They contend that Smith's appointment violates the Appointments Clause and undermines the role of Congress in overseeing the Justice Department.
Trump 'Thrilled' as Judge Dismisses Classified Documents Case
The ruling also raises questions about the validity of other special counsel investigations. Historically, special counsels have been presidentially appointed and Senate-approved, ensuring their accountability to the American people. However, Smith's appointment by Attorney General Merrick Garland bypassed these constitutional safeguards.
The dismissal of the classified documents case is a major setback for the Justice Department's efforts to investigate Trump. It remains to be seen whether the ruling will affect the ongoing election-interference investigation against the former president.
Trump 'Thrilled' as Judge Dismisses Classified Documents Case
Regardless, the ruling sends a clear message that the Justice Department cannot simply sidestep constitutional constraints in its pursuit of political opponents. It is a reminder that the separation of powers and the rule of law must be upheld even in the most politically charged cases.
