In a development that could have significant implications for the case against former President Donald Trump's alleged election interference in Georgia, the judge overseeing the trial stated that misconduct allegations against Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis might result in her disqualification. Judge Scott McAfee made these remarks during a hearing on Monday, where he also confirmed that a scheduled hearing on Thursday would proceed as planned.

The allegations against DA Willis, prosecutor Nathan Wade, and others were brought forward by Trump co-defendant Michael Roman. He filed a motion seeking to dismiss the election charges against him and disqualify Willis. Roman claimed that she had engaged in a "personal, romantic relationship" with Wade, resulting in financial gain for both. Willis admitted to the relationship but denied any financial conflict of interest.

Judge McAfee expressed his belief that if evidence is produced regarding the alleged conflict or appearance of one, disqualification could occur. He emphasized the need for an evidentiary hearing to establish the facts surrounding the core allegations, including the nature and extent of any financial benefit resulting from their relationship.

However, McAfee refused to issue a final ruling at the hearing, stating that live testimony subject to cross-examination was necessary before he could make a determination. He mentioned that several procedural hurdles needed to be cleared before calling Willis as a witness.

During the hearing, Fulton County prosecutor Anna Cross argued for the quashing of the subpoenas, asserting that the potential witnesses would not support the "wild speculation" in Roman's motion. Cross claimed that any costs incurred during Willis and Wade's joint travel were evenly split and did not present a financial conflict.

In response, Attorney Ashleigh Merchant, representing Roman, argued that the witnesses possessed relevant information pertaining to the allegations. Merchant stated that the former business associate of Wade, Terrence Bradley, could testify that Willis and Wade's personal relationship predated the prosecutor's involvement in the case, contradicting the DA's filing.

Willis's office previously requested the quashing of subpoenas and the cancellation of the upcoming evidentiary hearing, labelling the efforts as "harassment and disruption." Willis argued that there was no factual basis justifying her and her employees becoming witnesses and accused Roman of attempting to support baseless accusations.

This case holds significant weight as Trump, Roman, and 17 others have pleaded not guilty to charges in a racketeering indictment for their alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia. Four defendants have already entered plea deals in exchange for testifying against others.

The judge deferred a final ruling on witnesses and their subpoenas until the Thursday hearing, where the arguments and testimonies will shed further light on the potential disqualification of District Attorney Fani Willis from the case.