A federal judge has denied a request by two news organizations to view the grand jury documents related to former president Donald Trump’s claims of executive privilege in connection with the 2020 presidential election.
Thursday, Chief Judge Beryl Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled against Politico and The New York Times, who had filed requests for access to information in an ongoing Justice Department special counsel investigation.
According to Politico, Howell stated that grand jury secrecy rules prevented her from disclosing the information being discussed behind closed doors.
When requesting access to the information, Politico and the New York Times cited the content’s historical significance.
“Therefore, [the grand jury secrecy rule] does not permit such disclosure, at least for the time being and possibly forever,” wrote in a 32-page opinion, as reported by Politico.
Certain investigative details must remain classified for the protection of grand jury witnesses and the government’s investigation.
In October, Politico and the Times petitioned the judge to unseal portions of the grand jury proceedings, citing the historical significance of her sealed rulings. The DOJ was against the unsealing.
Both media outlets stated that they are evaluating an appeal.
“Politico is committed to the principle that a government of, by, and for the people is transparent with the people on such an important issue,” said Politico spokesman Brad Dayspring.
We are analyzing the decision and determining the next steps.
“We are dissatisfied with the verdict. Once we have had time to process the opinion explaining the decision’s rationale, we will decide whether or not to pursue further legal action “Danielle Rhoades Ha, a spokeswoman for The New York Times, stated.
It was reported earlier this month that former Vice President Mike Pence had been subpoenaed in connection with the investigation.
Special counsel Jack Smith has subpoenaed Vice President Mike Pence as part of his investigation into efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.
The highest-ranking official known to have been summoned is Vice President Mike Pence.
Former White House counsel Pat Cipollone and his deputy Pat Philbin, as well as Pence’s aides, have appeared in court to testify behind closed doors.
