The legal future of former U.S. President Donald Trump hangs in the balance, with indications suggesting a possible indictment looming. Recent discussions between Trump's legal representatives and officials from the Justice Department, including special counsel Jack Smith, have fueled such speculations. Smith has been probing whether the ex-president, now 76, mishandled classified documents post-presidency.
In a related development, a Florida grand jury is set to reconvene this week following a brief recess.
On June 6, Trump's flurry of social media activity stirred speculation, suggesting he might be apprehensive about forthcoming legal developments.
Bill Barr, the former Attorney General, commented on CBS Mornings on Tuesday, "I presume it's imminent." He further added, "I've long maintained that this is the most serious legal threat the former president is facing. If I were a betting man, I'd wager it's imminent."
Reports indicate that Smith has completed gathering the necessary evidence and testimonies. All eyes are now on what will transpire next.
Tim Parlatore, a former member of Trump's legal defense team at Mar-a-Lago who departed in May, shared his perspective on the meeting. "There would be no point in a meeting if the DOJ has already resolved not to file charges. If the decision is to merely draft a report without levying charges, then a meeting is superfluous," he said.
"But if the decision tilts towards filing charges, then a meeting is worthwhile as a last-ditch effort. It could help determine if anything has been overlooked or missed before crossing the point of no return," Parlatore added, while also shedding light on what the meeting might entail.
Parlatore described, "The discussion would revolve around two main areas. One pertains to the specific facts and conditions of the case - do these actually represent a criminal offense? The second aspect would involve what I refer to as other atmospheric elements... these include other issues or factors to be considered when deciding."
OK! reported earlier that Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence was the subject of a raid in August 2022, resulting in the seizure of numerous documents.
Despite recorded conversations discussing classified documents, Trump continues to insist upon his innocence. During an interview with Sean Hannity, the former president stated, "I am not privy to any information about this. The only thing I know for sure is this: I have always acted in accordance with the law. I have adhered to the Presidential Records Act in its entirety."
He further defended his actions stating, "As president, I possess the authority to declassify."