Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis mentioned that her team is fully prepared for the case against former President Donald Trump and his 14 co-defendants. She also addressed concerns about potential delays caused by attempts to remove her from the case.
Despite facing over two months of hearings and court actions regarding her romantic relationship with her lead prosecutor, Willis managed to avoid disqualification from the election subversion case. In a recent interview with CNN, she confirmed that she continued working on the case during that period.
While we were writing responsive briefs and working on the case, I didn't feel like we were being slowed down at all. Despite efforts to derail our progress, the train is still moving forward," she mentioned during an Easter basket giveaway in Atlanta.
"We won't let the noise or distractions from one case disrupt our momentum. We will keep doing our work without missing a beat," Willis affirmed.
The DA’s office still has legal obstacles to overcome in the case involving alleged attempts to overturn the ex-president’s 2020 election loss. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee recently approved requests from Trump and his co-defendants to appeal the ruling allowing Willis to continue as prosecutor.
The Georgia Court of Appeals will now review the decision to not disqualify Willis. Trump and his co-defendants claim that a romantic relationship between Willis and the former lead prosecutor on the case, Nathan Wade, presents a conflict of interest that should disqualify both of them.
CNN previously reported that the DA had planned to go to trial before the November election. On Saturday, Willis mentioned that the original request was to hold the trial in August, which was never approved. She stated, "We may request that date again, but we understand that the case needs to follow the necessary steps and procedures."
Furthermore, Willis acknowledged the fact that one of the defendants is involved in multiple cases, some of which have trial dates scheduled before theirs. She emphasized the importance of respecting other jurisdictions and their cases.
The DA shared that she feels a stronger sense of love from the community following the negative attention surrounding her relationship with Wade. She mentioned feeling particularly supported by women during this time.
According to her, women may feel a sense of solidarity when they see a fellow professional being strong and dedicated to doing their job well. She believes they are proud to witness someone in a position of power striving to make a positive impact.
Willis expressed that she does not feel the need to restore her reputation with Fulton County residents. She mentioned, "I'm not ashamed of my actions. Perhaps my biggest wrongdoing is having a relationship with a man, but I don't see that as something to be embarrassed about. I am confident that I have not committed any illegal activities."
Moving forward, Willis emphasized the importance of focusing on "the charges, the facts, and the law," while leaving all drama behind.
Four individuals have admitted their guilt in the case. District Attorney Willis mentioned that she is open to considering plea deals with Trump or the remaining co-defendants. She stated, "If defendants approach us wanting to resolve their case, we are willing to listen to their explanations with an open mind and reasonableness."
Following Wade's resignation, the responsibility of handling potential plea deals now falls on the District Attorney. Willis emphasized, "Moving forward, these discussions will be led by me instead of Mr. Wade." She added, "I hope this change is beneficial for everyone involved."
Surrounded by members of the community at Laster Chapel United Methodist Church, Willis took selfies with parents and gave out Easter baskets to children. He told CNN, "I may not be perfect, but I work hard and love the community I serve. This seat doesn't belong to me, it belongs to the people. I will do my best to honor it."
CNN's Jason Morris and Zachary Cohen contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis's determination to proceed with the case against former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants despite facing challenges is commendable. Her resilience in the face of attempts to remove her from the case highlights her unwavering commitment to justice. Willis's assertion that her office has not been slowed down by the distractions is a testament to her team's dedication and professionalism.
Willis's willingness to consider plea deals and her emphasis on focusing on the facts of the case demonstrate her commitment to a fair and impartial trial. Her acknowledgment of the support she has received, particularly from women, underscores the importance of female empowerment and solidarity. Willis's unwavering belief in her ability to serve the community, despite personal challenges, serves as an inspiration for others facing adversity. resilience and integrity in public service. Her emphasis on focusing on the facts and the law while leaving personal drama behind sets a positive example for those aspiring to lead with honesty and determination.