Trump appointee Aileen Cannon blocks release of Jack Smith's report on classified documents probe

U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon has blocked the public release of Special Counsel Jack Smith's report investigating former President Donald Trump's handling of classified documents. Cannon determined the report should remain within the Justice Department due to Smith's "unlawful appointment" and her previous dismissal of the case.

She noted that “it is not customary” for a prosecutor to release such a report following a final dismissal. Cannon also mentioned a protective order preventing public disclosure of discovery materials.

Critics argue that her ruling enables continued secrecy about Trump's actions. Chioma Chukwu from American Oversight emphasized the public's right to know, stating, "This sweeping order once again gives the president exactly what he wanted." Meanwhile, Trump’s attorney supported Cannon's decision, calling Smith's investigation unconstitutional.