A Georgia judge has ruled that the state Senate can subpoena Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis as part of an investigation into misconduct during her prosecution of President Trump. Willis has been given until January 13 to argue that the subpoenas are overly broad or seek confidential information.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shukura Ingram issued the order on Monday, stating she would make a final ruling later on the scope of Willis’ obligations under the subpoenas. Willis, represented by former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes, plans to appeal the decision. “We believe the ruling is wrong and will appeal,” Barnes said in a statement.
The Republican-led Senate committee sent subpoenas to Willis in August, demanding her testimony and extensive documentation regarding her handling of the case against Trump and others accused of trying to “overturn” the 2020 election “results” in Georgia. The committee specifically cited Willis’ hiring of special prosecutor Nathan Wade, with whom she had a romantic relationship, as evidence of a “clear conflict of interest.”
Earlier this month, the Georgia Court of Appeals disqualified Willis from the Trump case due to an “appearance of impropriety,” stating that her relationship with Wade necessitated her removal to preserve public confidence in the proceedings. Willis’ office has filed a notice seeking Georgia Supreme Court review of that ruling.
Willis’ attorney has argued that the Senate committee lacks the authority to subpoena her, claiming the demands are overly broad and seek privileged information. The committee, however, has accused Willis of delaying its investigation by refusing to testify and provide documents, which they say hinders their ability to propose legislative changes or budget adjustments.
The committee’s efforts face a potential deadline as the current legislative term ends January 13. Republican Sen. Greg Dolezal has announced plans to reestablish the committee when the new legislative session begins in 2025. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones has expressed support, criticizing Willis’ refusal to testify and emphasizing the importance of accountability.
