Trump's Campaign Attorney Turns State Witness in Arizona 2020 Election Case
A former attorney for Donald Trump's 2020 election campaign, Jenna Ellis, has agreed to assist Arizona's Democratic attorney general in an election interference case related to post-election challenges. While Trump himself has not been charged, he is currently considered an unindicted co-conspirator. Ellis, facing nine felony charges herself, has had these charges dropped in return for her pledge to testify truthfully and provide documents that may aid the prosecution.
Details of the Agreement
The case revolves around what Democrats refer to as "fake electors," Republicans who were urged by the Trump campaign to convene on December 14, 2020, and sign a certificate claiming they were the rightful electors, based on the premise that Trump had won Arizona's 11 Electoral College votes. Ellis' cooperation with the prosecution will help them build a stronger case against these individuals.
Significance of the Agreement
Attorney-General Kris Mayes, who won her position by a narrow margin of 510 votes out of over 2.5 million, has praised Ellis' cooperation as a significant step forward in the case. She stated, "Her insights are invaluable and will greatly aid the state in proving its case in court...I will not allow American democracy to be undermined — it is far too important.”
Charges Against Other Defendants
The other defendants in the case, all of whom have pleaded not guilty, face nine felony charges each, including forgery, conspiracy, and fraudulent schemes. Among them are Rudy Giuliani and former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows.
Legal Challenges and Expected Trial Date
The cases in Arizona are not expected to go to trial until next year. Lawyers for the defendants have challenged the prosecution, arguing that it violates an Arizona law designed to prevent "strategic lawsuits against public participation," or "SLAPP." They claim that the attorney general is using indictments to silence political opponents.
Ellis' Legal Troubles in Georgia
Ellis has also faced legal issues in Georgia. In October, she pleaded guilty to a felony count of aiding and abetting false statements and writing. She expressed regret for not performing "due diligence" regarding the campaign's allegations of election fraud and was sentenced to five years probation, ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution, complete 100 hours of community service, and write an apology letter to the citizens of Georgia.
Ellis' Role in the 2020 Campaign
During the 2020 campaign, Ellis referred to herself as part of an "elite strike force team" of lawyers and often appeared alongside Giuliani. She is reported to have encouraged Trump to try to convince Mike Pence not to certify election results from contested states on January 6, 2021.
Bottom Line
The turn of events in Arizona's election interference case, with a former Trump campaign attorney now aiding the prosecution, adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing legal battles surrounding the 2020 election. It raises questions about the role of attorneys in political campaigns and the consequences when lines are crossed. What are your thoughts on this development? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. And don't forget, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered to your inbox every day at 6pm.
