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A federal judge has blocked the public release of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s final report detailing his investigation into former President Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents after leaving office. The decision, handed down Monday by U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon in Florida, represents a significant victory for Trump in his efforts to maintain the special counsel’s findings from public view.

Judge Cannon, who previously dismissed the criminal case brought by Smith before Trump’s reelection, ruled that it is not customary for a prosecutor whose case was dismissed to then publicly disseminate evidence generated during the investigation. The ruling centers on the second volume of Smith’s report, which has remained under seal amid legal challenges from Trump and his co-defendants. The first volume, concerning alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election, was released prior to Trump’s return to the White House.

Smith initially submitted the two-volume report to then-Attorney General Merrick Garland in early 2025. The ongoing legal battle over the report’s release underscores the intense scrutiny surrounding Trump’s handling of classified materials and the investigations into his conduct both during and after his presidency. The core issue revolves around transparency and the public’s right to access information related to investigations involving a former president.

In her 15-page ruling, Cannon stated, “The Court strains to uncover a situation in which a former special counsel has released a report after initiating criminal charges that did not result in a finding of guilt, at least not in a situation like this one, where the defendants contested the charges from the outset and still proclaim their innocence.” She also criticized Smith for even preparing the report, arguing it violated her earlier rulings that effectively halted his office’s work on the classified documents matter. Politico reported on the judge’s reasoning, highlighting her concerns about the unusual nature of releasing a report after a case dismissal.

Cannon’s Previous Rulings and Concerns Over Impartiality

This decision follows a pattern of rulings by Judge Cannon that have been favorable to Trump throughout the investigation. In 2024, she concluded that Smith was unlawfully serving as special counsel, a decision that raised questions about her impartiality. Critics have argued that Cannon’s rulings demonstrate a bias in favor of the former president. MSNBC detailed the history of Cannon’s rulings in the case, noting the ongoing appellate reviews of her actions.

Cannon declined a request from two of Trump’s former co-defendants to order the complete destruction of the report. However, her decision to block its release is likely to fuel further legal challenges and public debate.

Appeals and Transparency Efforts Continue

Despite Cannon’s ruling, the fight for transparency surrounding Smith’s report is far from over. Appeals have been filed by public transparency groups seeking to compel the release of Volume II of the report. The Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, for example, has actively pursued the release of the report, arguing that the public has a right to access it under the First Amendment and the Freedom of Information Act. The Knight Institute asked the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit to reverse Cannon’s order.

American Oversight has also appealed Judge Cannon’s order, arguing it could clear the way for Trump to permanently destroy the report. American Oversight filed an expedited motion to prevent Cannon from granting Trump’s requests to keep the public in the dark regarding the report’s preservation.

What’s Next in the Case

The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals will now review Judge Cannon’s decision. The outcome of that review will determine whether the public will ever have access to the full scope of Smith’s findings regarding Trump’s handling of classified documents. The case continues to highlight the complex legal and political challenges surrounding investigations into former presidents and the balance between executive privilege, transparency, and accountability. The appellate court’s decision is expected to be a key moment in determining the future of this case and the public’s understanding of the investigation.

What are your thoughts on Judge Cannon’s decision? Share your comments below and join the discussion.

Milan – Italian journalist and sportscaster Federico Buffa recently interviewed a basketball coach as part of a series airing on Sky Sport, focusing on the world of American basketball. Buffa, a prominent voice in Italian sports media, explored the nuances of the game and the experiences of those involved, offering insights into the competitive landscape of US basketball. This discussion, part of a broader commentary on “L’America rossoblù,” provides a unique perspective on the sport from a European viewpoint.

Buffa’s work consistently delves into the cultural and sporting aspects of basketball, and this latest segment continues that tradition. He is known for his in-depth analysis and storytelling, bringing a distinctive Italian lens to the coverage of American sports. The interview, broadcast on Sky, aims to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by basketball coaches in the United States.

Federico Buffa’s Career and Expertise

Federico Buffa, born July 28, 1959, in Milan, Italy, has established himself as a leading figure in Italian sports journalism. According to Wikipedia, Buffa studied sociology at UCLA in 1978 and began his career covering Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano in 1984, sharing commentary duties with Flavio Tranquillo. His biography details a progression through the ranks, culminating in his current role as a journalist for Sky Sport Italia and Milan Channel.

In 1986, Buffa graduated with a law degree from the University of Milan, focusing his dissertation on sports employment contracts. He became a professional journalist that same year and penned his first article for the Italian magazine “Superbasket.” He later transitioned into working as a basketball agent and began commentating on NBA games for Italian television. Buffa’s diverse background – encompassing legal studies, journalism, and agency work – informs his comprehensive understanding of the sport.

“Federico Buffa racconta Storie Mondiali” and Current Work

Buffa directed a ten-episode program titled “Federico Buffa racconta Storie Mondiali” (“Federico Buffa tells World Cup Stories”) which aired on Sky Sport TV starting in May 2014. This program showcased his storytelling abilities and his capacity to connect with audiences through compelling narratives. His current work continues to build on this foundation, offering insightful commentary and analysis of the world of basketball. He has authored several books, including “Black Jesus. Un grande viaggio nel basket americano in 23+1 fermate” (2002) and “Black Jesus. The anthology” (2005).

The recent interview with the basketball coach, part of the “L’America rossoblù” series, represents a continuation of Buffa’s commitment to exploring the intricacies of American basketball. While specific details of the interview remain unconfirmed, the focus on a coach’s perspective suggests an exploration of the strategic and personal challenges inherent in the sport.

Looking Ahead

Federico Buffa’s ongoing contributions to Sky Sport Italia and Milan Channel promise continued insightful coverage of the basketball world. His unique perspective, shaped by his extensive experience and Italian background, offers a valuable contribution to sports journalism. Further episodes of “L’America rossoblù” are anticipated, potentially offering deeper dives into the lives and experiences of those involved in American basketball.

What are your thoughts on the intersection of Italian sports commentary and American basketball? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow basketball enthusiasts!