Federal Judge Aileen Cannon, known for dismissing the classified documents case against Donald Trump, is reportedly a top contender for the role of attorney general if Trump wins the 2024 election. According to sources familiar with the former president’s campaign and transition planning, Cannon’s name has appeared on a list of potential legal appointments, sparking both interest and controversy.
Judge Cannon’s Dismissal of Trump’s Case
In July 2024, Judge Cannon made headlines by dismissing 40 criminal charges against Trump related to his handling of classified documents after leaving the White House. The decision was based on her ruling that Special Counsel Jack Smith’s appointment was unconstitutional. Trump’s campaign and legal team praised Cannon’s ruling, which came on the first day of the Republican National Convention, despite Smith appealing the dismissal.
Cannon’s Name Circulates as a Potential Attorney General
Following her ruling, Judge Cannon’s name emerged on a personnel document titled “Transition Planning: Legal Principals,” reviewed by ABC News. The document lists possible candidates for top positions in the Department of Justice (DOJ) and other key government agencies, with Cannon named as a potential attorney general. Her inclusion on the list, however, is not final, as Trump’s team continues to update and revise their personnel considerations.
Cannon’s name follows that of former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton on a list of nearly a dozen candidates. Others under consideration for DOJ posts include veterans from Trump’s previous administration, such as Steve Engel and Will Levi.
Controversial Legal Figures on the List
The proposed roster includes several other controversial figures, including Jeffrey Clark, indicted in Georgia for his alleged involvement in overturning the 2020 election, and Mike Davis, who has publicly promoted aggressive actions against Trump’s political opponents. These names reflect a broader trend within Trump’s inner circle to consider individuals who have been outspoken in their support of Trump’s legal battles and have challenged traditional norms of DOJ independence from the White House.
Speculation Surrounding Judge Cannon’s Influence
The prospect of Judge Cannon being appointed attorney general has raised concerns, particularly given her past decisions favorable to Trump. Legal experts speculate whether her potential future appointment could impact the ongoing appeal of her dismissal of Trump’s classified documents case. While the special counsel’s office has not commented on the matter, it remains unclear if Cannon’s consideration for attorney general will influence future legal proceedings related to the case.
The Trump Campaign’s Transition Planning
Although Cannon’s inclusion on the list is noteworthy, Trump’s transition team has emphasized that all lists of potential cabinet appointments are preliminary. Sources close to Trump indicate that the former president has been resistant to formal transition talks, preferring to keep personnel decisions fluid.
As Trump continues to ramp up his campaign rhetoric, promising to prosecute political opponents if re-elected, the role of attorney general has become a focal point in discussions about his potential administration. Senator JD Vance, Trump’s running mate and co-chair of his transition team, recently underscored the importance of the attorney general, stating it is second only to the presidency in terms of influence on national policy.
The Road Ahead
If Trump wins in 2024, the appointment of figures like Judge Aileen Cannon to top DOJ posts could signal a significant shift in how law enforcement and justice are handled at the federal level. Critics argue that such appointments could further politicize the DOJ, while Trump’s supporters see it as a necessary step to restore “equal justice under the law.
