A newly emerged recording features former President Trump acknowledging that he retained classified Pentagon documents.
New evidence has surfaced featuring former President Donald Trump admitting to keeping classified Pentagon documents regarding a prospective assault on Iran from a 2021 summer meeting. This discovery runs contrary to Trump’s previous statements that he had disclosed all relevant information.
The recording implies that Trump knowingly held on to classified information even after his term, according to investigators familiar with the case. A source told CNN that the segment of the recording discussing the Iran document lasted approximately two minutes and was a minor component of a broader meeting.
The meeting is under scrutiny by Special Counsel Jack Smith, who is conducting a criminal investigation into Trump’s handling of national security secrets. The tape is viewed as significant evidence in a potential case against Trump, who has consistently maintained his right to keep presidential records and unilaterally declassify documents.
In preparation for a federal grand jury, prosecutors have interrogated witnesses about the tape and the document. This case has received significant attention, prompting officials to question General Mark Milley, a notable national security figure during Trump’s presidency, concerning his possible involvement.
The meeting in question occurred in July 2021 at Trump’s Bedminster, New Jersey golf club. Attendees included people working on the memoir of Trump’s former Chief of Staff, Mark Meadows, and former Trump aides like communication expert Margo Martin. Sources indicate that these participants lacked the necessary security clearances to view classified information.
This revelation of Trump discussing a classified document on tape could heighten his legal troubles as he begins his third presidential campaign. Nevertheless, Trump has vehemently denied any misconduct. When recently asked at a CNN town hall if he had displayed classified documents kept after his presidency to anyone, Trump denied it, while asserting his right to do so and stating the documents were later declassified.
