Trump denies having any documents in leaked audio, calling it mere bravado.

Former President Trump Denies Holding Classified Documents in Leaked Audio

Former President Donald Trump has vehemently denied allegations that he was seen holding classified documents in a leaked audio recording. Despite being heard referring to classified material, Trump insists that his actions were merely an act of “bravado” and that no classified documents were involved.

During an interview with Semafor, Trump stated, “I would say it was bravado, if you want to know the truth. It was bravado. I was talking and just holding up papers and talking about them, but I had no documents. I didn’t have any documents.”

Although Trump did not disclose the nature of the papers he was holding, he mentioned having papers related to “25 different things.” Notably, the recording captured Trump discussing a Department of Defense plan for an attack on Iran.

When questioned about his use of the word “plans,” Trump clarified that he was referring to “business plans” or plans for a new golf course. He stated, “Did I use the word plans? What I’m referring to is magazines, newspapers, plans of buildings. I had plans of buildings. You know, building plans? I had plans of a golf course.”

The leaked audio recording, which was released by CNN, was recorded in New Jersey in 2021. It is expected to play a significant role in special counsel Jack Smith’s case against Trump regarding the alleged storage of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago resort after leaving the Oval Office. Last August, FBI agents reportedly seized hundreds of classified documents from Trump’s Florida residence during a raid on the resort.

Trump recently pleaded not guilty to 37 federal charges, including 31 charges related to the “willful retention of national defense information,” which is a violation of the Espionage Act. The trial, scheduled for December, will take place at a federal court in Miami, where former aide Walt Nauta will also be a co-defendant in the case.

Click here to read more from The Washington Examiner.