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Special Counsel Jack Smith is advocating for the prohibition of cameras in the courtroom for the upcoming federal trial of former President Donald Trump over alleged 2020 election interference.

In a recent legal motion, Smith addressed a request by media outlets, collectively termed the “Media Coalition” and NBCUniversal, opposing their bid to broadcast the proceedings.

Smith’s filing on Friday emphasizes that existing federal and local regulations do not support the media’s plea to televise the trial. The special counsel’s argument also points out “a long-standing judicial stance” against allowing such coverage in federal trials.

The “media coalition” had previously argued that the unique context of Trump’s trial as a former president and a presidential candidate implicated in charges of undermining democratic processes warrants exceptional transparency and public access through audiovisual means.

The decision now lies with the court to either maintain the status quo or grant an exception in this high-profile case.