U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon delivered a decisive victory for Donald Trump by permanently blocking the release of the second volume of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s report, ruling that publication would constitute a “manifest injustice” to the president and his co-defendants.

Court Rules Against DOJ Release

Judge Cannon issued her ruling just one day before the Justice Department planned to release Volume II of Smith’s classified documents investigation. The 15-page order prohibits the DOJ from “releasing, distributing, conveying, or sharing with anyone outside the Department of Justice any information or conclusions in Volume II or in drafts thereof.” The Trump-appointed judge argued that releasing the report would violate basic principles of fairness and potentially expose privileged attorney-client communications.

Cannon emphasized that former special counsels typically release reports only after choosing not to bring charges or after securing guilty verdicts through plea agreements or trials. She noted the unusual nature of this case, where criminal charges were initiated but dismissed without any finding of guilt, while defendants maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings.

Defense Team Celebrates Victory

Trump’s former defense attorney Kendra Wharton praised Cannon’s decision, stating that her “courage and judicial resolve on these important due process issues should be recognized and taught in law school classrooms across America.” The ruling represents a significant legal victory for Trump, who had requested the permanent injunction against the report’s release. Neither Smith’s law firm nor the Justice Department provided immediate responses to requests for comment following the ruling.

Background and Broader Implications

The blocked volume relates to Smith’s investigation into classified documents allegedly retained at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence after he left office in January 2021. Smith had claimed his team developed “powerful evidence” of willful retention and obstruction, but charges were dropped following Trump’s 2024 election victory, consistent with DOJ policy against prosecuting sitting presidents. Judge Cannon had previously ruled that Smith’s appointment as special counsel was unconstitutional, though that matter was ultimately dismissed after Trump’s re-election. Smith resigned from his role shortly after the charges were dropped.