Former Trump Strategist Bannon Criticizes DeSantis’ Presidential Announcement

Steve Bannon, a former Trump strategist, and campaign CEO for Donald Trump, didn’t hold back his criticism when asked about Florida Governor Ron DeSantis‘ recent presidential campaign announcement.

Steve Bannon, a former Trump strategist, had harsh words Thursday for one of former President Donald Trump’s rivals for the Republican presidential nomination. (Photo: CBS News)

Former Trump Strategist Bannon Criticizes DeSantis

Leaving the courtroom after a hearing in his New York State felony money laundering case, former Trump strategist Bannon expressed his disdain for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis‘ recent presidential campaign announcement, which experienced technical difficulties during its live broadcast on Twitter.

“I thought it was a complete disaster. Elon Musk is a complete disaster. He’s owned by the Chinese Communist Party,” Bannon asserted, referring to the CEO of Twitter who hosted DeSantis’ announcement.

Former Trump strategist Bannon who faces charges related to a group he was involved with that promised to privately fund the construction of a U.S.-Mexico border wall, has maintained his innocence and entered a not-guilty plea.

The Manhattan District Attorney’s office, led by Alvin Bragg, alleges that the former Trump strategist and others misappropriated funds for personal gain. The trial for Bannon’s case has been scheduled for May 27, 2024, as confirmed by New York Judge Juan Merchan on Thursday.

Originally set for November 2023, the trial was postponed due to Bannon’s change of legal representation. In January, Bannon’s original attorneys informed Judge Merchan of “irreconcilable” differences between themselves and their client, CBS News reported.

Both sides in the case expressed satisfaction with the delayed trial date, prompting the judge’s approval. Trump’s felony falsification of business records case is also overseen by Judge Merchan and is scheduled to proceed on March 25, 2024, with Trump pleading not guilty.

READ ALSO:  Shocking Turn Of Events: Florida Mom Covers A Crime By Blaming Her 7-Year-Old Daughter

Former Trump Strategist Bannon Continues To Be An Influential Figure

Despite the legal challenges he faces, Bannon continues to be an influential figure within conservative circles, using his platform to express his views on political matters and criticize prominent figures such as Governor DeSantis and Elon Musk.

Bannon had previously faced federal charges in 2020 but received a pardon from Trump in the final hours of his presidency. It is important to note that presidential pardons do not apply to state charges, which led to the initiation of the current case in New York.

In a separate federal case, Bannon was convicted in July and sentenced to four months in prison in October 2022. The charges stemmed from his refusal to comply with a subpoena issued by the House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Alongside the prison sentence, Bannon was also ordered to pay $6,500 in financial penalties. Pending the outcome of his ongoing appeal, Bannon remains free.

The outcome of his upcoming trial will undoubtedly have significant implications for both Bannon and the broader political landscape.

READ ALSO:  Assault Suspect Charged After Shoving Premier League Manager Eddie Howe