Federal Appeals Court Upholds Trump Gag Order in Election Interference Case

The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals has largely upheld a gag order in the federal election interference case against former President Trump, preventing him from making public statements about potential witnesses, attorneys, and court personnel. However, Trump is now allowed to criticize special counsel Jack Smith but not his team members. The court emphasized the importance of the rule of law and stated that Trump, as an indicted criminal defendant, must stand trial under the same procedures as others. Trump is expected to appeal the ruling, which could go before the full D.C. Circuit Court or the Supreme Court. The court also signaled resistance to Trump's efforts to delay his trial, stating that it would be counterproductive and burden the judicial process. Trump's trial is scheduled to begin on March 4.