Jeffrey Clark claims authority to write election letter; prosecutors allege he exceeded power
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Former DOJ official Jeffrey Clark said he acted within scope of duties in Georgia election case. His lawyer argued in court he had authority to write letter on election concerns.
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Prosecutors say Clark exceeded his authority and top DOJ officials told him claims in letter were false. Judge questions if Clark could go directly to Trump without superiors.
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Defense lawyer says Trump "ratified" the letter in a January 2021 White House meeting. But prosecutor says Clark hasn't shown Trump authorized the letter.
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Hearing is on Clark's attempt to move case from state to federal court. Judge already denied similar request from Mark Meadows.
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Practical effect of federal court would be broader jury pool, no cameras at trial. But no chance for pardon since state charges.