Recently, Jared Kushner, son-in-law to former President Donald Trump, appeared before a federal grand jury to address whether Trump privately admitted his loss in the 2020 election in the days that followed. This information was initially reported by the New York Times, and subsequently confirmed by CNN and ABC News.
Hope Hicks, a former Trump aide, also testified, while Alyssa Farah Griffin, Trump’s former communications director, reportedly met with prosecutors. Federal prosecutors involved in special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation are likely seeking to determine whether Trump knowingly pursued efforts to overturn the election results based on a falsehood. This line of inquiry could strengthen a future case against the former president.
During his grand jury appearance, Kushner acknowledged that Trump genuinely believed that the election was stolen. The Times also highlighted that other individuals associated with Trump have been called to testify about his intent.
Legal experts note that establishing Trump’s mindset could significantly enhance prosecutors’ case. Presenting a defendant’s own words as evidence has often proven influential in swaying juries.
In a separate development, the Justice Department has urged a judge to deny Trump’s request to indefinitely postpone his trial related to classified documents. Prosecutors have proposed a trial starting on December 11, but Trump’s lawyers countered with a plea for a postponement, expressing concerns about the fairness of the trial ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
