Mon Sep 23 21:45:36 UTC 2024: ## Trump’s Lawyers Accuse Special Counsel Smith of Election Interference with “Hit Piece” Filing

**WASHINGTON, D.C.** – Former President Donald Trump’s legal team is accusing Special Counsel Jack Smith of attempting to influence the 2024 presidential election with an “oversized” motion filed ahead of the upcoming election. They claim the 180-page brief, intended to argue against presidential immunity in Trump’s superseding indictment, is a “false hit piece” designed to damage Trump’s campaign.

Trump’s attorneys have filed an objection to the filing, arguing that it violates the Justice Manual, which prohibits federal prosecutors from timing actions to influence elections. They further argue that the brief would “taint the integrity of these proceedings” and amplify First Amendment harms resulting from the gag order currently placed on Trump.

“The Gag Order prevents President Trump from explaining in detail why the Office’s selective and biased account is inaccurate without risking contempt penalties,” Trump’s attorneys wrote in their objection.

The brief, which was requested by Smith’s team to be filed by September 26, includes a “detailed factual proffer” and “extensive footnote citations to an exhibit appendix,” according to court documents. Prosecutors claim the extensive brief is necessary to “create a robust record” for the judge.

Trump’s lawyers have argued that the timing of the filing, coupled with its potential to influence public opinion, represents a clear attempt by Smith to manipulate the election. “The Office cannot be permitted to issue a massive and misleading public statement that is not responsive to a defense motion, and risks adverse impacts to the integrity of these proceedings, while simultaneously insisting on an unconstitutional prior restraint on President Trump’s ability to respond to their inaccurate assertions while he is campaigning,” Trump’s attorneys concluded.

The ongoing legal battle between Trump and Smith continues to escalate as the 2024 election draws closer. The potential for the brief to become a political football, influencing public perception and the outcome of the election, remains a significant concern.

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