Bush-Appointed Judge Allegedly Pressured Judge Cannon To Recuse Herself From Trump Documents Case
Two federal District Court judges reportedly attempted to pressure Judge Aileen Cannon to step down from overseeing the classified documents case involving former President Donald J. Trump. According to sources, one of the judges involved was Cecilia M. Altonaga, the chief judge of the Southern District of Florida, who was appointed by former President George W. Bush.
The New York Times reported that the pressure campaign began when an unidentified District Court judge contacted Judge Cannon with concerns about the security of the classified documents in her courthouse, which initially lacked a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF). However, the courthouse was later outfitted with the necessary secure space.
The effort intensified when Judge Altonaga called Judge Cannon and reportedly suggested that her continued involvement in the case would reflect poorly on the court. Altonaga cited Cannon’s prior intervention in the investigation and her appointment of a special master to review the documents as problematic actions.
Judge Altonaga’s husband, attorney George Mencio, has been a significant contributor to the Bush family’s political campaigns, indicating a possible alignment with the Republican establishment, which has frequently been at odds with Trump.
The allegations of judicial pressure add weight to Trump’s claims of interference in the prosecution led by Biden DOJ special counsel Jack Smith. Judge Cannon has been a vocal critic of Smith’s methods, accusing him of unethical and legally questionable behavior. In May, Judge Cannon suspended the trial date indefinitely after Smith acknowledged potential mishandling and tampering with some classified materials.
The reported attempts to influence Judge Cannon’s role in the case raise serious questions about judicial independence and the integrity of the legal process surrounding the high-profile prosecution of the former president. The controversy underscores the broader political and legal battles that continue to surround Trump’s post-presidency.