Former President Donald Trump has reached a significant milestone in his federal indictment process as he arrives at the federal courthouse in Miami for his arrest and arraignment. He faces 37 counts of obstructing justice by retaining and refusing to return classified documents related to national security. Trump maintains his innocence and is expected to plead not guilty to all 37 counts during the arraignment.
Trump took to Truth Social, his social media platform, to comment on his way to the courthouse, writing, “ON MY WAY TO COURTHOUSE. WITCH HUNT!!! MAGA,” around 1:30 p.m.
A large contingent of supporters has gathered outside the courthouse, as well as at the Trump National Doral resort where he stayed the previous night. Simultaneously, there is a gathering of demonstrators opposing Trump in downtown Miami. However, media cameras are prohibited from entering the building, so the public’s attention remains focused on the courthouse.
Todd Blanche, who also represents Trump in the hush money case against him in Manhattan, will serve as his attorney during the arraignment. Following the proceedings, Trump is expected to travel to his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club, where he will deliver comments.
Alina Habba, one of Trump’s attorneys, spoke to the media outside the courthouse prior to the arraignment, alleging that the prosecution is targeting Trump as a leading political opponent, comparing it to actions seen in dictatorships. It is worth noting that Habba does not have a background in criminal law and has taken on a spokesperson role for Trump.
During the arraignment, Walt Nauta, a Trump aide, is also scheduled to be arraigned. Nauta, a Navy veteran, is accused of playing a significant role in assisting Trump in retaining classified documents. Before becoming an aide, Nauta served as Trump’s personal valet.
Trump arrived at the courthouse in a car, while his attorneys Blanche and Chris Kise, along with Nauta and his attorney Stanley Woodward, followed in a separate vehicle. Notably, Trump is not expected to be handcuffed or have his mugshot taken, as was the case during his arraignment in Manhattan.
