Bragg’s office is currently prosecuting Trump on 34 counts of falsifying business records. These records are related to an alleged hush money payment made to adult film actor Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election. According to Bragg, this payment was intended to prevent Daniels from publicly discussing her claims of having an affair with the former president.
Trump has consistently denied any involvement in an affair with Daniels and has pleaded not guilty to all charges. He firmly asserts his innocence and has accused Bragg and other prosecutors of unfairly targeting him for political reasons. Trump has criticized the trial, viewing it as a form of election interference.
Trump supporters have expressed concerns about Colangelo’s prior experience at the DOJ, where he also handled cases related to the former president.
Republicans have leveled accusations against prosecutors, claiming that they are unfairly targeting Trump, who is the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. Furthermore, certain conservatives have propagated claims that this association is proof that President Joe Biden is orchestrating the prosecution. However, it is important to note that no evidence has been presented to substantiate these allegations.
Jordan’s committee is currently investigating what he perceives as the deliberate use of the legal system against Trump and other conservatives. He recently sent a letter to James as part of his ongoing efforts to address these concerns. In the letter, he raised his worries about the potential perception that the Justice Department is aiding in District Attorney Bragg’s politically motivated prosecution.
According to him, Colangelo’s employment demonstrates a supposed fixation on investigating individuals rather than pursuing criminal charges.
Jordan has formally requested that all documents and communications between Colangelo and employees from various offices and organizations be provided. These include the Manhattan DA’s Office, the Fulton County DA’s Office in Georgia, the DOJ, the Democratic National Committee, and Biden for President. The requested materials should pertain to or be associated with Trump, The Trump Organization, and any other entities linked to Trump. The time frame for these documents and communications is from January 1, 2017, onwards.
James was asked by Jordan to deliver all personnel files related to Colangelo’s hiring, employment, or termination at the AG’s office. The deadline for submitting the files is May 29, 2024, at 5 p.m.
In December 2022, Colangelo was hired in a senior position at the DOJ, where he oversaw various divisions including Antitrust, Civil, Civil Rights, Environment and Natural Resources, and Tax.
According to the press release, Bragg expressed that Matthew Colangelo possesses a vast amount of experience in economic justice as well as complex white-collar investigations. He also highlighted Colangelo’s sound judgment and integrity, which are crucial qualities in pursuing justice against influential individuals and institutions that misuse their power.
Colangelo’s previous experience includes working at the New York State Office of the Attorney General, where he conducted an investigation into the Trump Foundation.