In a tense oversight hearing before Georgia state senators on Wednesday, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis delivered a combative testimony regarding her handling of the now-dismissed case against former President Donald Trump and his allies. The hearing, led by Republican lawmakers, sought to investigate Willis's conduct, particularly her hiring of and relationship with former lead prosecutor Nathan Wade.
The case against Trump unraveled following allegations of impropriety between Willis and Wade, which included a claimed extramarital affair and substantial taxpayer-funded compensation. Willis, who appeared under subpoena, was questioned about Wade's involvement in the case, the timeline of their relationship, any financial gains she might have obtained, and broader claims of prosecutorial misconduct.
As the committee explored potential legislative reforms for district attorney oversight in Georgia, the proceedings became increasingly confrontational. Willis vehemently disputed the accuracy of previous testimonies and accused the senators of propagating misinformation, often raising her voice during the exchange.
A particularly contentious moment arose when a senator cited Wade's testimony, which suggested his participation in over 90 percent of critical meetings and decisions. Willis demanded to see the exact transcript, stating, "I can't speak to any other person's testimony. If he testified to such, you're going to need to show it to me. You’ll have to forgive me, I don’t really trust you so I’ll have to see that particular testimony."
The senators further questioned Willis on discussions about investigating the 2020 election with Wade prior to her January 2021 assumption of office. Her response was hostile as she lambasted the question's foundation, calling it "ignorant" and "a dumb ass question."
The inquiry into Willis's actions gained momentum in 2024 when a motion for dismissal based on the DA's alleged impropriety with Wade came to light. Defendants claimed Willis profited from Wade's compensation, which exceeded $650,000 and alleged that the funds were used for lavish vacations, creating a conflict of interest and casting doubt on the prosecution's integrity.
Further accusations arose, suggesting Willis and Wade had misrepresented their relationship's timeline while under oath, eroding public trust. In March 2024, Judge Scott McAfee acknowledged an "appearance of impropriety" but allowed Willis to continue on the condition that Wade resign.
The Appeals Court later ruled in favor of the defendants' appeal for Willis's complete disqualification, a decision upheld by the Georgia Supreme Court in September, resulting in her permanent removal. Following Willis's disqualification, Pete Skandalakis was appointed as the replacement prosecutor, but the case was ultimately dismissed due to staffing and resource challenges.
