Federal Judge Rejects Mark Meadows' Bid to Move Georgia Racketeering Case
Former White House Chief of Staff's Motion Denied
By Amanda Voisard, The Washington Post
A federal judge on Friday rejected former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows' bid to move a Georgia racketeering case against him to Florida. The judge, Eleanor L. Ross of the Northern District of Georgia, ruled that the case would remain in Georgia, where the alleged crimes took place.
"The Court finds that the majority of the operative facts occurred in Georgia and thus a transfer of venue is not warranted," Ross wrote in her order. "The Court also finds that the convenience of the parties and witnesses favor keeping the case in Georgia."
Meadows is one of several Trump allies who have been charged with racketeering in connection with their efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. The indictment alleges that Meadows and others "engaged in a multi-state conspiracy to cast false electoral ballots, interfere with the lawful functioning of government, and fraudulently alter the outcome of the 2020 election."
Meadows has pleaded not guilty to the charges. He has argued that the case should be moved to Florida, where he now lives, because it would be more convenient for him and his witnesses. However, Ross ruled that the convenience of the parties and witnesses is not a factor that outweighs the fact that the alleged crimes took place in Georgia.
The decision is a blow to Meadows, who had hoped to have the case moved to a more favorable jurisdiction. It is also a sign that the Fulton County District Attorney's office is taking the case seriously and is prepared to fight to keep it in Georgia.
Updated: 5:41 AM PDT December 19, 2023
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