In a recent ruling, Judge Tanya Chutkan denied former President Donald Trump the extensive delay he sought for his upcoming trial.
Trump's legal team requested a postponement until February 9 to prepare for the case, which involves accusations of obstructing the 2020 presidential election.
However, the judge granted only a partial extension, allowing until November 27 for filing motions for subpoenas and until December 13 for compelling evidence production, rather than the original November 9 deadline.
This is reported by Newsweek.
Judge Chutkan found most of Trump's arguments for a longer extension "unpersuasive," acknowledging the large volume of discovery but emphasizing the need to keep the trial on schedule. Despite Trump's criticism of the judge as "highly partisan" and the case as politically motivated, Chutkan has maintained a firm stance, including imposing a gag order to prevent Trump from potentially influencing the proceedings through public commentary.
Marks the second time
The decision marks the second time Judge Chutkan has extended deadlines for Trump's attorneys, having previously moved the original deadline from October 9 to November 9.
Trump, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, continues to lead the GOP nomination race for the 2024 presidential election and has expressed intentions to appeal the gag order, which he deems as a political silencing tactic.
This development is a significant setback for Trump, who has been vocal in his belief that the legal actions against him are a form of political persecution.
The court's decision to grant only a limited extension underscores the judiciary's commitment to proceeding with the trial without undue delay, while balancing the need for thorough preparation by the defense.
