Steve Bannonone of the elected presidents The most fervent supporters of Donald Trumpis scheduled to go to trial in February in a case in which Trump pardoned him once – but this time, a White House pardon is not on the table.
A judge set Tuesday for February 25 as the start of Bannon’s trial. charges related to allegations money laundering, conspiracy and fraudulent scheme. The case stems from that of Bannon alleged role in organization that raised millions on promising – during Trump’s first term – to privately build a wall along the US-Mexico border.
Bannon and the now-defunct group called We build the wallare accused of pocketing the donations. He pleaded not guilty in the case and called the charges “nonsense,” blaming the Manhattan District Attorney. Alvin Bragg to pursue allegations out of political animus.
The trial in this case was originally scheduled for November 2023, but has been delayed several times.
Bannon was indicted on federal charges in a similar case in August 2020, but Trump pardoned him as one of his final acts before leaving office in 2021 following his defeat to President Biden.
Presidents cannot grant pardons for state charges. As Trump enters the second month of his new presidency, his former top lawyer and chief White House strategist will be in court.
Bannon completed a four-month federal prison sentence just three weeks ago. He was imprisoned for defy a subpoena from a congressional committee that investigated the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
Although Bannon has already served that sentence, he may still be eligible for a pardon, which can help eliminate some consequences of a conviction, according to Justice Department guidelines. Trump promised during his campaign this year to pardon many January 6 insurrectionists, but did not say whether Bannon would be included in that group.
