The Georgia Court of Appeals has disqualified Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her entire office from the 2020 election interference case against President-elect Donald Trump due to an “appearance of impropriety.”
In a 2-1 ruling on Thursday, the court denied a request to dismiss the case but ordered Willis’ removal.
The decision follows controversy over Willis’ relationship with Nathan Wade, a special prosecutor she hired who billed the county $654,000. Evidence revealed Wade and Willis took luxury trips together, raising ethical concerns. Judge Trenton Brown stated in the ruling that disqualification was necessary to restore public confidence in the integrity of the proceedings.
Trump’s communication director, Steve Cheung, praised the ruling, calling it a rejection of “the political weaponisation of our justice system.” Trump, 78, who faces multiple charges, has pleaded not guilty.
Wade resigned in March after a lower court ruled that either he or Willis had to step down. Willis maintained that their relationship began after Wade’s appointment, but witnesses disputed the timeline.
Judge Ben Land dissented, arguing that the majority overstepped by disqualifying Willis. He contended that the appearance of impropriety was insufficient to justify her removal, echoing a similar conclusion by the lower court.
Willis can appeal the decision to the Georgia Supreme Court. The case will be assigned to the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia if she does not.
