Barbara McQuade, a former Obama U.S. Attorney and MSNBC legal analyst, appeared on Ana Cabrera Reports Monday, critiquing Judge Aileen Cannon’s decision to dismiss former President Donald Trump’s classified documents case in Florida. While McQuade deemed the decision “terrible” and “wrong on its merits,” she believes it may ultimately benefit the prosecution.
“This could actually be a blessing in disguise,” McQuade said. “It gives Jack Smith an opportunity to appeal the case immediately, which was not possible with previous decisions that were within the judge’s discretion.” She predicted that the 11th Circuit will reverse the decision, potentially leading to a Supreme Court ruling in favor of Trump.
However, McQuade emphasized that even if Trump prevails, the case is far from over. “All that means is a special counsel can’t bring this case,” she explained. “There’s nothing then to stop the U.S. attorney in the Southern District of Florida from bringing this case… It means a lengthy delay, but there will be no trial before the election.”
McQuade suggested that the Justice Department could respond by taking the case out of the special counsel’s hands and refiling it in the Southern District of Florida, potentially with a different judge. This strategic move would allow the prosecution to continue pursuing the case without delay, ensuring that justice is served.
