Analysis-Trump faces difficult odds in classified documents case

June 11, 2023

National security law experts were struck by the breadth of evidence in the indictment which includes documents, photos, text messages, audio and witness statements. They said this made a strong case for prosecutors’ allegation that Trump illegally took the documents and then tried to cover it up. Legal experts said Trump's alleged years-long effort to conceal documents was likely a major factor in special counsel Jack Smith's decision to indict him. Cato's Neily said that based on his reading of the indictment, prosecutors likely have many witnesses who have given them similar accounts of Trump's efforts. Legal experts disagree over whether Trump could pardon himself if he wins.