LOADINGERROR LOADING
Former President Donald Trump appeared in federal court in Miami on Tuesday to plead not guilty to criminal charges related to his handling of classified documents after leaving the White House.
Trump, who was also indicted by Manhattan’s district attorney earlier this year on felony charges related to hush money payments, was placed under arrest before entering his plea. Later Tuesday, the former president addressed supporters from his home in Bedminster, New Jersey.
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Read live updates on the arraignment below:
Pinned
Key Things To Know Tuesday Evening
- On Tuesday afternoon, Trump became the first president ever to be formally booked on federal crimes. After being arrested, he pleaded not guilty on 37 counts that he took highly classified documents from the White House to Mar-a-Lago and refused to return them.
- Trump and his aide and co-defendant Walt Nauta were both released without bail or travel restrictions. Trump was told not to speak to any witnesses about the case, including Nauta.
- A crowd of supporters and critics assembled outside the Miami courthouse where Trump was booked. One person was arrested for rushing the motorcade as it left.
- Following his court appearance, Trump flew to New Jersey, where he spoke to supporters about his indictment and responded with fury: “Today we witnessed the most evil and heinous abuse of power in the history of our country.”
- He took particular aim at special counsel Jack Smith, calling him a thug and a “raging and uncontrolled Trump-hater.”
Bye For Now!
As Trump celebrates his birthday on Wednesday, we're going to wrap up our live updates. Thanks for following along and check out huffpost.com for all our coverage of this historic time.
What Comes Next?
After Trump's 45-minute court hearing on Tuesday, federal prosecutors will hand over evidence to Trump's defense in a process known as discovery, according to CBS News. Usually the process happens within 14 days, but it may be delayed because there's classified information involved.
The Speedy Trial Act stipulates that a trial must commence within 70 days of an indictment being filed, but the deadline may be extended.
Trump's legal team may also file motions. Former Trump attorney Timothy Parlatore told CBS that he thinks Trump's team will file a motion to dismiss the case due to prosecutorial misconduct.
At the moment, there is no date set for Trump's next court appearance in this case, and it's possible it will be months until a trial.
The arraignment for Trump's co-defendant, Walt Nauta, has been delayed until June 27 because he did not have a local attorney. Nauta did not enter a plea.
The Speedy Trial Act stipulates that a trial must commence within 70 days of an indictment being filed, but the deadline may be extended.
Trump's legal team may also file motions. Former Trump attorney Timothy Parlatore told CBS that he thinks Trump's team will file a motion to dismiss the case due to prosecutorial misconduct.
At the moment, there is no date set for Trump's next court appearance in this case, and it's possible it will be months until a trial.
The arraignment for Trump's co-defendant, Walt Nauta, has been delayed until June 27 because he did not have a local attorney. Nauta did not enter a plea.
John Bolton Urges Republicans To Stick To Matter At Hand
John Bolton, who served as national security adviser under Trump then later became a vocal critic of the former president, urged Republicans to think through their "whataboutism" over the indictment, writes HuffPost's Lee Moran.
If there is a double standard over Espionage Act charges leveled at Trump, as Republicans claim — then: “Is the answer to the double standard to let Donald Trump escape scot-free? Is the answer to the double standard to revert to no standard at all?” Bolton told CNN.
If there is a double standard over Espionage Act charges leveled at Trump, as Republicans claim — then: “Is the answer to the double standard to let Donald Trump escape scot-free? Is the answer to the double standard to revert to no standard at all?” Bolton told CNN.
Lindsey Graham Defends Trump, Also Says He's Not In 'Cult'
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), in response to questions from Fox News' Jesse Watters, attacked Hillary Clinton, defended Trump and also insisted he was not in a cult that worships the former president, as Clinton suggested.
“They’ve taken the law and turned it upside down on numerous occasions to get him,” Graham said.
“They’ve taken the law and turned it upside down on numerous occasions to get him,” Graham said.
Haberman Reveals What Rattled Trump About His Indictment
New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman on Tuesday told CNN that the former president was "especially rattled" by the photos that appeared in the indictment.
The document released by the Justice Department last week includes several photos of places where Trump stored top-secret documents at Mar-a-Lago, including next to a toilet.
You can watch the full CNN segment here:
The document released by the Justice Department last week includes several photos of places where Trump stored top-secret documents at Mar-a-Lago, including next to a toilet.
You can watch the full CNN segment here:
Reporter Thrown Out Of Miami Restaurant Over Question To Trump
A journalist for the British network Sky News was booed, grabbed by the arm and told to “get out you stupid bitch” after asking Trump if he was “ready to go to jail” during the former president's visit to a Cuban eatery following his release.
You can see video of the incident in this story from HuffPost's Lee Moran:
You can see video of the incident in this story from HuffPost's Lee Moran:
Pence Says He 'Can't Defend' Allegations Against Ex-Boss
Former Vice President Mike Pence, one of Trump's rivals in the contest for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, said he cannot defend his former boss over his alleged mishandling of classified documents.
“Having read the indictment, these are very serious allegations. And I can’t defend what is alleged,” Pence told The Wall Street Journal editorial board.
HuffPost's Lee Moran has more here:
“Having read the indictment, these are very serious allegations. And I can’t defend what is alleged,” Pence told The Wall Street Journal editorial board.
HuffPost's Lee Moran has more here:
Fox News Calls Biden 'Wannabe Dictator'
Fox News on Tuesday evening aired a side-by-side graphic of Trump and Biden with the headline, “Wannabe Dictator Speaks At The White House After Having His Political Rival Arrested," HuffPost's Ed Mazza reports.
"Fox News Tonight" was hosted by Brian Kilmeade, in Tucker Carlson's old time slot.
"Fox News Tonight" was hosted by Brian Kilmeade, in Tucker Carlson's old time slot.
Ex-Federal Prosecutor Says Trump's Speech 'Just A Straight Out Confession'
Former federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann, who was also part of Robert Mueller's investigation team, spotted a few lines from Trump's post-arraignment speech that could be used in court against him.
“Part of what he said is just a straight-out confession,” Weissmann told MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell. “It’s not a defense. It’s a confession.”
You can read more from HuffPost's Ed Mazza here:
“Part of what he said is just a straight-out confession,” Weissmann told MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell. “It’s not a defense. It’s a confession.”
You can read more from HuffPost's Ed Mazza here:
Trump Wraps Up In N.J.
Trump has concluded his remarks in Bedminster. For a full recap of the former president's litany of complaints, read this dispatch from HuffPost's S.V. Date:
Trump Attacks Special Counsel Jack Smith Again
The former president is unleashing against Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith, a familiar refrain that reflects his ongoing fury with the investigation.
“Mine’s a not-so-nice person, mine’s a deranged lunatic,” Trump said. “That’s the prosecutor that they gave, he has found nothing.”
“The prosecutor in the case … is a thug,” he added. “I will name him deranged Jack Smith. … He’s a raging and uncontrolled Trump-hater.”
“Mine’s a not-so-nice person, mine’s a deranged lunatic,” Trump said. “That’s the prosecutor that they gave, he has found nothing.”
“The prosecutor in the case … is a thug,” he added. “I will name him deranged Jack Smith. … He’s a raging and uncontrolled Trump-hater.”
MSNBC & CNN Decline To Carry Trump's Speech
Both MSNBC and CNN declined to air Trump’s remarks at Bedminster live, adopting a similar policy to what they’ve used to cover the former president’s lengthy, falsehood-ridden campaign rallies.
“As we have said before in these circumstances, there is a cost to us as a news organization to knowingly broadcasting untrue things. We are here to bring you the news. It hurts our ability to do that if we live broadcast what we fully expect in advance to be a litany of lies and false accusations, no matter who says them,” MSNBC host Rachel Maddow said on-air as Trump was beginning to speak in New Jersey.
CNN anchor Anderson Cooper made a similar declaration shortly before Trump’s scheduled remarks.
“We will of course monitor [his remarks] as they come in and bring you anything that is actually newsworthy,” Cooper noted.
Fox News, meanwhile, is airing Trump’s comments in full.
“As we have said before in these circumstances, there is a cost to us as a news organization to knowingly broadcasting untrue things. We are here to bring you the news. It hurts our ability to do that if we live broadcast what we fully expect in advance to be a litany of lies and false accusations, no matter who says them,” MSNBC host Rachel Maddow said on-air as Trump was beginning to speak in New Jersey.
CNN anchor Anderson Cooper made a similar declaration shortly before Trump’s scheduled remarks.
“We will of course monitor [his remarks] as they come in and bring you anything that is actually newsworthy,” Cooper noted.
Fox News, meanwhile, is airing Trump’s comments in full.
Trump Is Once Again Pushing His Rights Under The Presidential Records Act Even Though The Law Says Otherwise
Trump is claiming he had the right to take such files with him under the Presidential Records Act ― again. As HuffPost’s Jonathan Nicholson reported, the law clearly says the opposite. The indictment also focuses on alleged crimes beyond simply taking classified documents with him, but rather his efforts to obstruct the government trying to recover them.
“The Presidential Records Act, which is not even mentioned in this ridiculous … indictment,” Trump said Tuesday. “Under the Presidential Records Act, which is civil, not criminal, I had every right to have these documents.”
“They ought to drop this case immediately,” he added. “This is why no other president, even those who kept far more documents than I, has even been investigated, let alone charged with a crime.”
“The Presidential Records Act, which is not even mentioned in this ridiculous … indictment,” Trump said Tuesday. “Under the Presidential Records Act, which is civil, not criminal, I had every right to have these documents.”
“They ought to drop this case immediately,” he added. “This is why no other president, even those who kept far more documents than I, has even been investigated, let alone charged with a crime.”
Ed Jones/AFP
Trump Has Begun Speaking At His Bedminster Country Club
The former president immediately called his recent indictment in the classified documents case a "political persecution like something out a fascist or communist nation."
Trump’s Remarks Set To Begin At 8:45 p.m. ET
That’s just over 15 minutes from now.
Flashback: Trump Admin Official On Classified Docs
As Trump grapples with charges over his handling of classified documents, HuffPost's Jen Bendery looks back on when the former president's NSA Director Michael Rogers called for tough punishment in a similar case.
What You Should Know About The Judge Overseeing Trump's Trial
HuffPost's Paul Blumenthal and Igor Bobic report on how Judge Aileen Cannon, the Trump appointee who will oversee the former president's federal trial, is causing concerns among some Democrats:
Trump Lands In N.J.
Trump has landed back in New Jersey following his arraignment.
He's set to attend a fundraiser at his private club in Bedminster, where he'll also give his first formal statement since pleading not guilty this afternoon.
According to reporters on the scene, several of Trump's allies are in attendance, including Andrew Giuliani, My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell and ex-NYPD commissioner Bernie Kerik (whom Trump pardoned in 2020).
He's set to attend a fundraiser at his private club in Bedminster, where he'll also give his first formal statement since pleading not guilty this afternoon.
According to reporters on the scene, several of Trump's allies are in attendance, including Andrew Giuliani, My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell and ex-NYPD commissioner Bernie Kerik (whom Trump pardoned in 2020).
President Biden Is Not Talking About Trump
President Joe Biden told a room of State Department officials that he has met with Chinese President Xi Jinping more than any other world leader, according to The Wall Street Journal. Biden added that he "turned all my notes in" from those conversations.
The remark made the audience of diplomats laugh, NBC News reported.
Biden followed his comment by insisting he was not talking about Trump, despite the media noise surrounding the former president's arraignment.
"That's not a reference to the president, the former president," Biden said, according to NBC News.
The remark made the audience of diplomats laugh, NBC News reported.
Biden followed his comment by insisting he was not talking about Trump, despite the media noise surrounding the former president's arraignment.
"That's not a reference to the president, the former president," Biden said, according to NBC News.
Jane Rosenberg/Reuters
Courtroom Sketch Released
We now have a glimpse of today's proceedings at Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. Courthouse, as depicted by courtroom sketch artist Jane Rosenberg.
The drawing depicts Trump (second from right) with his attorneys and co-defendant Walt Nauta (far left).
The drawing depicts Trump (second from right) with his attorneys and co-defendant Walt Nauta (far left).
GOPer Plays Down Inflammatory Tweets
Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.), one of the Republican members of Congress who tweeted ominous, militaristic messages after Trump's indictment was announced last week, defended his comments Tuesday, claiming he was trying to tell his followers to "calm down."
"The point was that I was talking to people that would understand that language to say, ‘Calm down. Don’t go to Miami,’” Higgins said.
Read more from HuffPost's Arthur Delaney:
"The point was that I was talking to people that would understand that language to say, ‘Calm down. Don’t go to Miami,’” Higgins said.
Read more from HuffPost's Arthur Delaney:
CNN, MSNBC Hosts Call For Networks To Cut Video Of Trump’s Cafe Visit
At least two network hosts made the decision on their live shows to ask their control rooms to stop airing footage of Trump visiting a cafe in Miami immediately after his arraignment.
While speaking with two other panel members, CNN’s Jake Tapper paused a discussion of the former president’s court appearance to tell the network’s control room to cut away from a video of Trump being welcomed and celebrated at Versailles, a Cuban restaurant in Miami known for hosting politicians. CNN was playing the footage as the panelists were speaking.
“I don’t need to see any more of that. He’s trying to turn it into a spectacle, into a campaign ad,” Tapper said, looking directly at the camera. “That’s enough of that, we’ve seen it already.”
At MSNBC, Nicolle Wallace made similar comments during her show while describing Trump’s visit to the restaurant. The network was showing a clip of Trump and his aide, co-defendant Walt Nauta, entering Versailles.
“That’s the picture over your brilliant words,” Wallace told reporter Garrett Haake, who is in Miami covering the arraignment. “We don’t need to see that anymore. We know where he is.”
While speaking with two other panel members, CNN’s Jake Tapper paused a discussion of the former president’s court appearance to tell the network’s control room to cut away from a video of Trump being welcomed and celebrated at Versailles, a Cuban restaurant in Miami known for hosting politicians. CNN was playing the footage as the panelists were speaking.
“I don’t need to see any more of that. He’s trying to turn it into a spectacle, into a campaign ad,” Tapper said, looking directly at the camera. “That’s enough of that, we’ve seen it already.”
At MSNBC, Nicolle Wallace made similar comments during her show while describing Trump’s visit to the restaurant. The network was showing a clip of Trump and his aide, co-defendant Walt Nauta, entering Versailles.
“That’s the picture over your brilliant words,” Wallace told reporter Garrett Haake, who is in Miami covering the arraignment. “We don’t need to see that anymore. We know where he is.”
Republican Gets Mad At Souvenir
HuffPost's Dave Jamieson reports on Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) complaining about the White House Gift Shop selling a coin commemorating Trump's federal indictment.
"Whatever you think about it, whatever party you are, you’ve gotta admit that it’s poor taste, that it’s capitalizing upon something without his permission," Cassidy said.
One problem with Cassidy's "outrage of the week" (his words) -- the White House Gift Shop has no affiliation with the actual White House, or with President Joe Biden.
Read more:
"Whatever you think about it, whatever party you are, you’ve gotta admit that it’s poor taste, that it’s capitalizing upon something without his permission," Cassidy said.
One problem with Cassidy's "outrage of the week" (his words) -- the White House Gift Shop has no affiliation with the actual White House, or with President Joe Biden.
Read more:
Trump Thanks Supporters Following Arraignment
After departing Miami's Versailles restaurant, Trump thanked his supporters in a brief Truth Social message.
"Thank you Miami," he wrote. "Such a warm welcome on such a SAD DAY for our Country!"
"Thank you Miami," he wrote. "Such a warm welcome on such a SAD DAY for our Country!"
Little Distance Between Trump, Nauta
As we noted earlier, Judge Jonathan Goodman ordered Trump to not speak to any witnesses about the case, including co-defendant Walt Nauta.
But just moments after leaving court, Nauta was seen quite close to Trump during his visit to the Versailles restaurant in Miami.
But just moments after leaving court, Nauta was seen quite close to Trump during his visit to the Versailles restaurant in Miami.
Protester In Fake Jail Suit Arrested After Appearing To Run At Motorcade
A man wearing a striped jail costume was seen being taken into custody outside of the courthouse after he appeared to run in front of Trump’s motorcade with a sign.
The man was quickly tackled by several suited men and pulled onto a sidewalk by police as the motorcade continued along the crowded street.
The protester had been earlier seen carrying a sign reading “LOCK HIM UP.”
The man was quickly tackled by several suited men and pulled onto a sidewalk by police as the motorcade continued along the crowded street.
The protester had been earlier seen carrying a sign reading “LOCK HIM UP.”
Trump Makes A Pit Stop
Trump stopped at Versailles, a famed Cuban restaurant in Miami's Little Havana neighborhood, before departing Florida. Footage aired on CNN showed the president shaking hands and speaking with supporters who had gathered at the establishment in anticipation of the former president's arrival.
Trump has previously visited the restaurant — as have many other former presidents.
Trump has previously visited the restaurant — as have many other former presidents.
Hearing Ends, Trump Leaves Court
Trump is now leaving the federal courthouse in Miami after being remanded by the judge. He's expected to head back to Bedminster, where he'll make a statement this evening.
Trump Loyalists Expected To Attend His Fundraiser At Bedminster
While Trump was in Miami for his arraignment, his presidential campaign team was busy setting up a fundraiser for Tuesday evening in Bedminster, New Jersey.
Trump is expected to speak at the event, and will surely include his opinions on the federal indictment and his court appearance from hours earlier.
According to Politico, event organizers placed name tags at each seat in front of the entrance of Trump’s golf club. Some of those names include former Trump aide Kash Patel, who testified in the documents case; MyPillow CEO and election conspiracy peddler Mike Lindell; and former Trump aide and right-wing radio host Sebastian Gorka.
Trump is expected to speak at the event, and will surely include his opinions on the federal indictment and his court appearance from hours earlier.
According to Politico, event organizers placed name tags at each seat in front of the entrance of Trump’s golf club. Some of those names include former Trump aide Kash Patel, who testified in the documents case; MyPillow CEO and election conspiracy peddler Mike Lindell; and former Trump aide and right-wing radio host Sebastian Gorka.
No Bail, No Travel Restrictions
HuffPost’s S.V. Date reports Trump and his aide and co-defendant Walt Nauta were both released by Judge Jonathan Goodman without bail or travel restrictions as neither defendant was deemed a flight risk.
However, Trump was instructed to not speak to any witnesses about the case — including Nauta.
However, Trump was instructed to not speak to any witnesses about the case — including Nauta.
Mike Pompeo Says Trump Put America's Military At Risk If Allegations True
Mike Pompeo, Trump’s secretary of state and CIA director, said his former boss put America’s military and national security at serious risk if the allegations are true about his mishandling of classified documents.
"First, if the allegations are true, and there’s lots of indications that they are, President Trump had classified documents where he shouldn’t have had them and then, when given the opportunity to return them, he chose not to do that for whatever reason,” Pompeo said in an interview Tuesday with Fox News.
“I suppose we can all make mistakes and get them to the wrong place,” he said of the documents ending up in Trump’s possession.
But Trump’s alleged decision not to return the documents when asked is “just inconsistent with protecting America’s soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines,” Pompeo said.
Trump’s former attorney general, Bill Barr, has also spoken out against Trump’s alleged actions. Barr on Sunday offered his opinion that Trump is “toast” if “even half” of the allegations against him are true.
"First, if the allegations are true, and there’s lots of indications that they are, President Trump had classified documents where he shouldn’t have had them and then, when given the opportunity to return them, he chose not to do that for whatever reason,” Pompeo said in an interview Tuesday with Fox News.
“I suppose we can all make mistakes and get them to the wrong place,” he said of the documents ending up in Trump’s possession.
But Trump’s alleged decision not to return the documents when asked is “just inconsistent with protecting America’s soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines,” Pompeo said.
Trump’s former attorney general, Bill Barr, has also spoken out against Trump’s alleged actions. Barr on Sunday offered his opinion that Trump is “toast” if “even half” of the allegations against him are true.
Melania Trump Reportedly In New York
The former first lady is in New York City while her husband is being arraigned in Miami, according to The New York Times.
Fox News had reported that Melania Trump was at the federal courthouse.
Fox News had reported that Melania Trump was at the federal courthouse.
Trump Plea: Not Guilty
Trump has pleaded not guilty to all 37 charges.
HuffPost's S.V. Date has all the details:
HuffPost's S.V. Date has all the details:
Stephanie Grisham Says Trump Was 'Like A Child' With Documents
Former White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham told CNN on Tuesday afternoon that she believed Trump felt ownership over the documents he hoarded at Mar-a-Lago, despite repeated requests from the National Archives and Records Administration to give them up.
“He’s like a child with his little toy train and no one’s going to take it from him,” Grisham said on CNN.
“I was even surprised for Trump that they could have been so, so careless with those documents,” she said, casting doubt on whether any of the documents were kept securely. One photo from the nearly 50-page indictment showed a heap of boxes stashed in a bathroom, tucked between the sink, toilet and shower beneath a large chandelier.
"That bathroom particularly was off a room that guests would play bridge and poker in,” Grisham said. “And so I guarantee when there were guests in that room that door wasn't locked.”
Grisham, who also served as spokesperson to former first lady Melania Trump, said she believed the president felt “absolutely dejected” as he headed to the courthouse. “He thinks that it’s not elegant,” she added.
“He’s like a child with his little toy train and no one’s going to take it from him,” Grisham said on CNN.
“I was even surprised for Trump that they could have been so, so careless with those documents,” she said, casting doubt on whether any of the documents were kept securely. One photo from the nearly 50-page indictment showed a heap of boxes stashed in a bathroom, tucked between the sink, toilet and shower beneath a large chandelier.
"That bathroom particularly was off a room that guests would play bridge and poker in,” Grisham said. “And so I guarantee when there were guests in that room that door wasn't locked.”
Grisham, who also served as spokesperson to former first lady Melania Trump, said she believed the president felt “absolutely dejected” as he headed to the courthouse. “He thinks that it’s not elegant,” she added.
Trump Officially In Court
Trump is now in the courtroom with his attorneys, several media outlets are reporting.
CNN reports that special counsel Jack Smith is also in court.
CNN reports that special counsel Jack Smith is also in court.
Failed Arizona Gov. Candidate Kari Lake, Who Raised Prospect Of Armed Trump Defense, Is In Miami Crowd
Election conspiracy theorist Kari Lake, a failed Republican gubernatorial candidate from Arizona, is in the crowd outside of the federal courthouse in Miami where Trump is being booked, according to a Washington Post reporter and a photo posted on social media.
Lake said Monday that she would be in Miami “to peacefully and patriotically protest in support” of Trump.
Following Trump’s federal indictment, Lake was one of several politicians to reference potential violence in response to the charges.
“If you want to get to President Trump, you are going to have to go through me, and you are going to have to go through 75 million Americans just like me,” Lake said in a speech – a message she said was addressed to Joe Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland, special counsel Jack Smith, and members of the media.
“And I’m going to tell you, most of us are card-carrying members of the N.R.A. That’s not a threat. That’s a public service announcement. We will not let you lay a finger on President Trump. Frankly, now is the time to cling to our guns and our religion."
“They can’t arrest all of us, they can’t indict all of us, they can’t stop all of us, we are so powerful together,” Lake said at a pro-Trump rally in West Palm Beach Monday, the Post reported.
Lake said Monday that she would be in Miami “to peacefully and patriotically protest in support” of Trump.
Following Trump’s federal indictment, Lake was one of several politicians to reference potential violence in response to the charges.
“If you want to get to President Trump, you are going to have to go through me, and you are going to have to go through 75 million Americans just like me,” Lake said in a speech – a message she said was addressed to Joe Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland, special counsel Jack Smith, and members of the media.
“And I’m going to tell you, most of us are card-carrying members of the N.R.A. That’s not a threat. That’s a public service announcement. We will not let you lay a finger on President Trump. Frankly, now is the time to cling to our guns and our religion."
“They can’t arrest all of us, they can’t indict all of us, they can’t stop all of us, we are so powerful together,” Lake said at a pro-Trump rally in West Palm Beach Monday, the Post reported.
Trump Attorney Slams Judicial System As 'Corrupt' In Remarks Outside Courthouse
Trump attorney Alina Habba accused the Biden administration and judicial system of being corrupt and unfairly targeting the ex-president in prepared remarks outside the Miami courthouse.
“The people in charge of this country do not love America, they hate Donald Trump,” she said while comparing the federal charges against Trump to the “type of thing you see in dictatorships like Cuba and Venezuela.”
“The decision to pursue charges against President Trump while turning a blind eye to others is emblematic of the corruption that we have here,” she said after questioning why others like former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Joe Biden weren’t criminally charged for their handling of classified information.
An investigation found that Clinton did not willfully retain classified information. An investigation into Biden’s retention of classified documents has not been publicly concluded.
Trump is accused of repeatedly impeding efforts by the federal government to recover hundreds of classified documents that he removed from the White House. He’s also accused of intentionally showing the classified information to people that did not have security clearance.
“The people in charge of this country do not love America, they hate Donald Trump,” she said while comparing the federal charges against Trump to the “type of thing you see in dictatorships like Cuba and Venezuela.”
“The decision to pursue charges against President Trump while turning a blind eye to others is emblematic of the corruption that we have here,” she said after questioning why others like former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Joe Biden weren’t criminally charged for their handling of classified information.
An investigation found that Clinton did not willfully retain classified information. An investigation into Biden’s retention of classified documents has not been publicly concluded.
Trump is accused of repeatedly impeding efforts by the federal government to recover hundreds of classified documents that he removed from the White House. He’s also accused of intentionally showing the classified information to people that did not have security clearance.
McConnell Also Staying Out Of It
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) also wouldn't answer questions about Trump's indictment and arrest, HuffPost's Igor Bobic reports:
White House Remains Mum
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to comment Tuesday on whether President Joe Biden would think about pardoning Trump if he is convicted.
No Cameras Permitted In Courthouse
No electronics — including phones and cameras — are permitted in the federal courthouse where Trump was booked, meaning that news media will not have footage of the former president entering his plea. It also means updates are slightly delayed, as reporters cannot send updates from the room where the action is.
See Photos From Trump's Arrival
HuffPost's Taiyler Mitchell and Chris McGonigal are compiling photos from Trump's arrival at his arraignment. See them here:
More On Trump's Surrender
The New York Times' Shane Goldmacher shared a photo of Trump arriving at the courthouse.
According to CNN, Trump was accompanied in his motorcade by several staffers and legal team members, but only his attorneys are expected to enter the courtroom with him.
According to CNN, Trump was accompanied in his motorcade by several staffers and legal team members, but only his attorneys are expected to enter the courtroom with him.
Key Moment
Trump Arrives
Trump has now arrived at the federal courthouse in Miami.
On his way to arraignment, the former president continued to post on Truth Social.
He wrote, “ON MY WAY TO COURTHOUSE. WITCH HUNT!!! MAGA.”
On his way to arraignment, the former president continued to post on Truth Social.
He wrote, “ON MY WAY TO COURTHOUSE. WITCH HUNT!!! MAGA.”
Miami Mayor Heckled By Trump Supporters
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez (R) was met with some hostility by Trump supporters when he showed up outside the courthouse.
“We’ve got a swamp monster, folks!” one voice can be heard yelling in video clips. Police moved in to make room between Suarez and the hecklers, The New York Times reported.
Suarez is expected to throw his hat in the ring for the GOP presidential nomination. He teased on “Fox News Sunday” that he’ll make a “major announcement” in the coming weeks.
“We’ve got a swamp monster, folks!” one voice can be heard yelling in video clips. Police moved in to make room between Suarez and the hecklers, The New York Times reported.
Suarez is expected to throw his hat in the ring for the GOP presidential nomination. He teased on “Fox News Sunday” that he’ll make a “major announcement” in the coming weeks.
Trump Heads To Miami Courthouse
Trump is on his way to a federal courthouse in Miami. A motorcade was seen leaving the Trump National Doral Miami.
Video taken by a Miami Herald reporter captured Trump waving and giving a thumbs up to cheering supporters while heading to a car.
Video taken by a Miami Herald reporter captured Trump waving and giving a thumbs up to cheering supporters while heading to a car.
Trump Continues To Air His Grievances
Trump has spent the hours ahead of his arraignment raging against special counsel Jack Smith. In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump attacked Smith as “deranged,” decried Tuesday’s proceedings as a “WITCH HUNT!” and alluded to an unsubstantiated bribery allegation involving President Joe Biden and the Justice Department.
“We are living in a Third World Country,” Trump wrote. “No Borders, Rigged Elections!”
Trump also compared his handling of classified documents to similar situations involving Biden and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, despite the cases differing dramatically.
“We are living in a Third World Country,” Trump wrote. “No Borders, Rigged Elections!”
Trump also compared his handling of classified documents to similar situations involving Biden and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, despite the cases differing dramatically.
Police Investigate Security Threat Outside Courthouse
Miami Police confirmed its officers were working alongside Department of Homeland Security personnel to close off two blocks around the courthouse. Reporters at the scene said a bomb threat had prompted the closure and shared a video of police tape surrounding what appeared to be a flat-screen TV near a light pole.
An all-clear was issued around an hour later, according to local news outlet WSVN.
An all-clear was issued around an hour later, according to local news outlet WSVN.
Trump Finds 2 Florida Lawyers To Represent Him Just Hours Before Arraignment
After scrambling to find a Florida attorney to represent him in Tuesday’s arraignment, Trump found two lawyers to join his team just hours before his court hearing.
The attorneys include former federal prosecutor and white-collar criminal defense lawyer Todd Blanche and former Florida solicitor general Chris Kise, according to the docket for the Southern District of Florida. Blanche also represents Trump in the New York criminal case involving hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels.
Walt Nauta, Trump’s aide and co-defendant, will be represented by Stanley Woodward, according to The Guardian.
On Monday evening, Trump was scrambling to find a qualified lawyer to represent him in Florida, according to The Washington Post. Attorneys Jim Trusty and John Rowley resigned Friday, citing the federal indictment related to the classified documents.
The attorneys include former federal prosecutor and white-collar criminal defense lawyer Todd Blanche and former Florida solicitor general Chris Kise, according to the docket for the Southern District of Florida. Blanche also represents Trump in the New York criminal case involving hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels.
Walt Nauta, Trump’s aide and co-defendant, will be represented by Stanley Woodward, according to The Guardian.
On Monday evening, Trump was scrambling to find a qualified lawyer to represent him in Florida, according to The Washington Post. Attorneys Jim Trusty and John Rowley resigned Friday, citing the federal indictment related to the classified documents.
AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura
Michael Cohen Warns Walt Nauta: Trump 'Will Throw You Under The Bus'
Trump had dinner with his aide and co-defendant Walt Nauta last night at his Doral resort in Miami, according to CNN’s Kristen Holmes.
The federal grand jury indictment includes charges against Nauta on five of the 37 counts Trump faces. The aide also faces a single count of making false statements and representations.
Michael Cohen, Trump’s former personal fixer-turned-critic, has a warning for Nauta, who is also expected to appear in court this afternoon.
“Run as quickly as you can because Donald Trump will throw you under the bus faster than you can possibly imagine,” Cohen said on MSNBC’s “All In With Chris Hayes.” “He won’t throw you under the bus simply just to save himself. He’ll just throw you under the bus simply because he can.”
Cohen served prison time over campaign finance violations in connection to a hush money payment scheme in the lead-up to the 2016 presidential election. He also testified before the Manhattan grand jury that indicted Trump earlier this year over those payments.
The federal grand jury indictment includes charges against Nauta on five of the 37 counts Trump faces. The aide also faces a single count of making false statements and representations.
Michael Cohen, Trump’s former personal fixer-turned-critic, has a warning for Nauta, who is also expected to appear in court this afternoon.
“Run as quickly as you can because Donald Trump will throw you under the bus faster than you can possibly imagine,” Cohen said on MSNBC’s “All In With Chris Hayes.” “He won’t throw you under the bus simply just to save himself. He’ll just throw you under the bus simply because he can.”
Cohen served prison time over campaign finance violations in connection to a hush money payment scheme in the lead-up to the 2016 presidential election. He also testified before the Manhattan grand jury that indicted Trump earlier this year over those payments.
Former House Speaker Paul Ryan: GOP Must Nominate 'Anybody’ But Trump
Paul Ryan, a Republican former House speaker, said it’s too early for Republicans to choose a primary candidate to support in the 2024 race. But one thing is clear, he told "CBS Mornings" on Tuesday: It should be anyone but Donald Trump.
“This one’s national security. This one’s different,” Ryan said of how the federal case differs from the criminal charges Trump faces in New York. “I think this goes beyond some petty thing.”
Ryan said Trump has a “great core of support” and he understands why some believe that there’s some “political sting here," but the fact remains that the allegations are serious.
“I can’t help but think the weight and the baggage of all this —and this one’s national security — I think we want a nominee who’s not weighed down by so much baggage in order to win this election,” he said.
Ryan went on to call Trump a weak candidate in general. He said Trump “hasn’t won anything since 2016,” noting that the Republican Party lost the House in 2018 and then the White House and the Senate in 2020. Ryan said his party would have taken control of the Senate last November if it had “not been for Trump and his nominees in some of our key primary elections.”
“If we nominate anybody not named Donald Trump, we’re going to beat Joe Biden,” he said.
“This one’s national security. This one’s different,” Ryan said of how the federal case differs from the criminal charges Trump faces in New York. “I think this goes beyond some petty thing.”
Ryan said Trump has a “great core of support” and he understands why some believe that there’s some “political sting here," but the fact remains that the allegations are serious.
“I can’t help but think the weight and the baggage of all this —and this one’s national security — I think we want a nominee who’s not weighed down by so much baggage in order to win this election,” he said.
Ryan went on to call Trump a weak candidate in general. He said Trump “hasn’t won anything since 2016,” noting that the Republican Party lost the House in 2018 and then the White House and the Senate in 2020. Ryan said his party would have taken control of the Senate last November if it had “not been for Trump and his nominees in some of our key primary elections.”
“If we nominate anybody not named Donald Trump, we’re going to beat Joe Biden,” he said.
Atlanta Watching Miami For Clues On How To Handle Its Own Possible Trump Case
Atlanta police sent a representative to study security proceedings in Miami surrounding the Trump arraignment in case it's of any help in preparing for an indictment in Georgia over a separate case, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
Downtown Atlanta could be getting its own spectacle in early to mid-August if Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis decides to pursue an indictment against Trump over his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. She hinted at that summer timetable in May, the paper reported.
The Fulton County Sheriff's Office sent a team to Manhattan in April to learn from the security proceedings at Trump's arraignment over hush money payments to the adult film star Stormy Daniels. However, the Florida trip may prove more useful as the state's security apparatus and gun laws are more similar to Georgia's than New York City's.
Downtown Atlanta could be getting its own spectacle in early to mid-August if Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis decides to pursue an indictment against Trump over his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. She hinted at that summer timetable in May, the paper reported.
The Fulton County Sheriff's Office sent a team to Manhattan in April to learn from the security proceedings at Trump's arraignment over hush money payments to the adult film star Stormy Daniels. However, the Florida trip may prove more useful as the state's security apparatus and gun laws are more similar to Georgia's than New York City's.
Trump Attacks Special Counsel, DOJ In New Truth Social Post
Trump isn’t staying quiet ahead of this afternoon’s court appearance.
In a Truth Social post, the former president launched yet another attack on the Justice Department and special counsel Jack Smith, accusing him —without proof — of tampering with evidence.
“He’s a Radical Right Lunatic and Trump Hater, as are all his friends and family, who probably ‘planted’ information in the ‘boxes’ given to them," Trump wrote. "They taint everything that they touch, including our Country, which is rapidly going to HELL!”
In a Truth Social post, the former president launched yet another attack on the Justice Department and special counsel Jack Smith, accusing him —without proof — of tampering with evidence.
“He’s a Radical Right Lunatic and Trump Hater, as are all his friends and family, who probably ‘planted’ information in the ‘boxes’ given to them," Trump wrote. "They taint everything that they touch, including our Country, which is rapidly going to HELL!”
Trump Won't Be Placed In Handcuffs, Get Mugshot: ABC News
Trump is not expected to get a mug shot or be handcuffed when he surrenders, ABC News journalist Katherine Faulders reported.
He also won’t have to empty the contents of his pockets, sources told Faulders.
This is similar to what happened during Trump’s arraignment in New York.
He also won’t have to empty the contents of his pockets, sources told Faulders.
This is similar to what happened during Trump’s arraignment in New York.
GOP Congressman Defends Trump's Handling Of Classified Documents
Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) on Tuesday defended Trump's handling of classified documents.
According to the indictment, Trump stored some of the files in a bathroom with a shower in his Mar-a-Lago estate, among other bizarre locations.
But Donalds said there is nothing to see here.
"You just can't walk through Mar-a-Lago of your own accord, because Secret Service is all over the place," he told "CNN This Morning."
"There are 33 bathrooms at Mar-a-Lago. So don't act like it's just in some random bathroom that the guests can go into — that's not true," he continued.
Donalds' comments echo remarks by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) that compared Trump's conduct to that of President Joe Biden, who stored classified documents in the garage of his Wilmington home.
“Is it a good picture to have boxes in a garage that opens up all the time? A bathroom door locks,” McCarthy said.
According to the indictment, Trump stored some of the files in a bathroom with a shower in his Mar-a-Lago estate, among other bizarre locations.
But Donalds said there is nothing to see here.
"You just can't walk through Mar-a-Lago of your own accord, because Secret Service is all over the place," he told "CNN This Morning."
"There are 33 bathrooms at Mar-a-Lago. So don't act like it's just in some random bathroom that the guests can go into — that's not true," he continued.
Donalds' comments echo remarks by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) that compared Trump's conduct to that of President Joe Biden, who stored classified documents in the garage of his Wilmington home.
“Is it a good picture to have boxes in a garage that opens up all the time? A bathroom door locks,” McCarthy said.
Larry Hogan Troubled Over GOP Voters Sticking With Trump Despite Indictment
Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) on Tuesday said he is annoyed that some Republican leaders are “not even willing to take a look at the evidence" that led to Trump's indictment.
"These are very serious charges with very sensitive material that he was hiding in his spare bathroom and in a ballroom," he told "CNN This Morning" ahead of the former president's first court appearance in Miami.
Hogan said it was "troubling" that many GOP voters continue to stick with Trump despite him being the first U.S. president to face federal criminal charges.
"While I don't understand why so many people continue to ignore the facts and it does concern me, look, there's no question Donald Trump could go up in the polls as a result of this," Hogan said.
Hogan recently ruled himself out of the contest for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination.
"These are very serious charges with very sensitive material that he was hiding in his spare bathroom and in a ballroom," he told "CNN This Morning" ahead of the former president's first court appearance in Miami.
Hogan said it was "troubling" that many GOP voters continue to stick with Trump despite him being the first U.S. president to face federal criminal charges.
"While I don't understand why so many people continue to ignore the facts and it does concern me, look, there's no question Donald Trump could go up in the polls as a result of this," Hogan said.
Hogan recently ruled himself out of the contest for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination.
Trump Supporters Arrive Outside Federal Courthouse
Only a handful of Trump supporters have gathered so far outside the Miami federal courthouse, with still hours to go before his 3 p.m. ET arraignment. The supporters include a group of people wearing shirts reading “Blacks for Trump” and a man carrying a sign reading “Trump DeSantis 2024.”
Reporters Barred From Having Phones In Miami Courthouse
Chief U.S. District Judge Cecilia M. Altonaga on Monday ruled that reporters will be banned from bringing cellphones and other electronic equipment inside the Miami courtroom where Donald Trump is set to be arraigned Tuesday over his handling of classified documents.
Altonaga said the punishment for those who violate the order will include a 30-day jail sentence and a $5,000 fine for contempt of court.
The U.S. Marshals Service will be required to inspect all phones and electronics brought into the building.
This comes as U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman, who will preside over Tuesday's hearing, denied a request by a group of news organizations to allow some photographers and videographers inside the courtroom or in a nearby corridor ahead of the proceeding. He also rejected a second request for court officials to immediately release the official recording of Tuesday's hearing and subsequent ones.
Altonaga said the punishment for those who violate the order will include a 30-day jail sentence and a $5,000 fine for contempt of court.
The U.S. Marshals Service will be required to inspect all phones and electronics brought into the building.
This comes as U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman, who will preside over Tuesday's hearing, denied a request by a group of news organizations to allow some photographers and videographers inside the courtroom or in a nearby corridor ahead of the proceeding. He also rejected a second request for court officials to immediately release the official recording of Tuesday's hearing and subsequent ones.
Trump In 11th-Hour Scramble To Find Lawyer: Report
Trump spent his Monday evening scrambling to find a qualified lawyer to join his defense team in Florida — a familiar predicament for the former president, The Washington Post reported, citing people familiar with the matter.
Two of his lawyers, Jim Trusty and John Rowley, resigned Friday. They said the documents case being filed in Miami was the reason for their departure.
Disagreements over legal strategies have hindered Trump's search for a new member of the team, The Washington Post writes. Also, Trump is known as a difficult client.
Read more here.
Two of his lawyers, Jim Trusty and John Rowley, resigned Friday. They said the documents case being filed in Miami was the reason for their departure.
Disagreements over legal strategies have hindered Trump's search for a new member of the team, The Washington Post writes. Also, Trump is known as a difficult client.
Read more here.
Trump 2024 Rivals Look For Attack Angle On His Indictment
Some 2024 GOP presidential hopefuls are taking a noticeably less friendly tack than their party counterparts over Trump's historic indictment as early polling shows the slightest of openings, HuffPost's Kevin Robillard explains.
Debunking Trump's Presidential Records Act Defense
Trump claims the 1978 Presidential Records Act gives him a “right” to the top secret documents he took to his Mar-a-Lago estate after he left the White House in January 2021, which in turn were the subject of his indictment last week. His read of that law is at odds with just about everyone else’s, HuffPost's Jonathan Nicholson reports.
GOP Bending Over Backwards
The indictment against Trump, which became public on Friday, is full of wild details and allegations. However, many Republicans on Capitol Hill are brushing off the charges against the former president.
Read more from HuffPost's Igor Bobic:
Read more from HuffPost's Igor Bobic:
How The 2024 Field Is Responding
Beyond Capitol Hill, many of Trump's rivals in the 2024 presidential race have accused the Department of Justice of acting politically.
Read more from HuffPost's Nina Golgowski:
Read more from HuffPost's Nina Golgowski:
What To Expect Today
As HuffPost's Lydia O'Connor reported, Trump arrived in Miami on Monday and will report to Wilkie D. Ferguson Courthouse for his arraignment today.
Trump will appear before a judge and will be formally read the charges against him. He is expected to plead not guilty.
And while plenty of members of the media and demonstrators are gathering outside the courthouse, local reporters say it's unlikely the public will get a glimpse of the former president as he enters court.
Read more on what to expect as today's proceedings unfold:
Trump will appear before a judge and will be formally read the charges against him. He is expected to plead not guilty.
And while plenty of members of the media and demonstrators are gathering outside the courthouse, local reporters say it's unlikely the public will get a glimpse of the former president as he enters court.
Read more on what to expect as today's proceedings unfold:
Follow Along For Live Updates
We'll have live updates all day Tuesday as Trump heads to federal court in Miami. Check back for more.