The lawyer who initiated the campaign to oust Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from the Georgia election interference case is now opening up about her investigation for the very first time.
In the recent trial, Ashleigh Merchant raised the issue of Willis’ connection with the special prosecutor, Nathan Wade, during her cross-examination.
The judge ultimately permitted Willis to continue working on the case, but Wade had to resign.
Ashleigh Merchant expressed her sense of vindication in response to the judge’s ruling on Friday, according to an interview with Channel 2 investigative reporter Mark Winne.
Merchant expressed that she had faced numerous attacks ever since she filed the case. She mentioned being labeled as a liar and being subjected to false accusations. Despite this, she found validation in Judge McAfee’s order on a personal level. However, from a professional standpoint, and in consideration of her responsibility towards her client, she believes that they have a strong case for an appeal.
Merchant shared with Winne that in her extensive career, filled with numerous high-profile cases, she has never encountered a situation as overwhelming both personally and professionally as the aftermath of her motion. This motion revealed a romantic relationship between Willis and Nathan Wade, the special prosecutor for the election interference case who has since left his position.
Winne questioned Merchant about their role in exposing the public romance between Fani Willis and Nathan Wade.
“Absolutely,” she replied.
Merchant made attempts to disqualify the pair from the election interference case, advocating for her client Michael Roman, whom she firmly believes is innocent.
Merchant expressed her belief in the importance of honesty and transparency, stating, “I think the truth needed to come to light and I’m all about transparency.”
During the hearing on whether or not Willis should be removed from the case, Willis expressed his frustration to Merchant by saying, “You’ve been intrusive into people’s personal lives. You’re confused, you think I’m on trial. These people are on trial for trying to steal an election in 2020.”
Just minutes before her interview with Winne, Merchant hit send on Roman’s appeal of McAfee’s order. The appeal stated that Willis and the DA’s office could continue to be involved in the case even if Wade decided to withdraw, which he ultimately did.
In her opinion, she believes that all of them should have been removed, despite the fact that some of the judge’s findings supported the stances she had taken.
Merchant emphasized the significance of the issue, stating that it necessitates an appeal. According to him, the outcome of the case is heavily influenced by this matter.
The merchant claims that Willis’ references to race in a speech shortly after the motion were equivalent to accusing her of being racist.
Merchant, in her speech, did not mention the defense lawyer. However, she expressed her desire to clear her name and emphasized that she is not guilty.
“I am committed to fulfilling my responsibilities as a defense attorney. It is my duty to protect and advocate for my client’s best interests. If I come across any evidence that is relevant and beneficial to the case, regardless of how it may impact me personally, I am obligated to bring it to light,” Merchant expressed with conviction.
The prosecution argued that, in November 2021, there was no personal relationship between District Attorney Willis and Special Prosecutor Wade, despite their professional association and friendship since 2019.
Merchant expressed his familiarity with Mr. Wade, remarking that both himself and the lawyers representing the other codefendants have been pondering the reasons behind choosing Mr. Wade.
In August, Merchant had a conversation with attorney Manny Arora, who was representing a co-defendant. During their discussion, there were rumors circulating about a potential romantic relationship between the prosecutors.
According to her, the crucial details in her movements regarding the matter were provided by Terrance Bradley, who is both Wade’s former law partner and former divorce attorney. She had conversations with Bradley in different forms, including in person, over the phone, and through text messages.
Merchant said he followed up with open records and tried to find witnesses and other evidence.
When he testified, he did not provide support for the crucial points.
Merchant expressed his disappointment while watching Mr. Bradley testify, as he shared with Winne.
Merchant was asked by Winne if he was receiving any resources for his investigation from the Trump camp.
Merchant stated that he conducted the investigation independently, addressing the speculation surrounding it. He further added that since he received support from others and their involvement in the motion, he has had access to a broader range of resources to assist with the litigation process.
Winne reached out to Bradley’s attorney for a comment on this story.
Merchant and the lawyers representing the defendants who participated in the unsuccessful disqualification attempt have essentially submitted identical appeals.
According to her, McAfee is the first to review the appeal and decides whether to forward it to the Georgia Court of Appeals.
If he does, the Court of Appeals will either accept or reject the idea of considering it.