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A Georgia judge has ruled that lead prosecutor Fani Willis can continue her involvement in Donald Trump’s trial, given that she distances herself from a deputy with whom she had a personal relationship.

The case revolves around charges against Trump for attempting to overturn the 2024 election. This ruling comes as a setback for Trump, who is campaigning to unseat current Democratic President Joe Biden in the upcoming November 5 election, while also facing four criminal cases.

Judge McAfee’s decision follows a period of heightened scrutiny concerning Willis’ conduct, particularly her romantic involvement with Nathan Wade, a special prosecutor appointed for the case. Their relationship, revealed in a January court filing, led to a pause in the proceedings as arguments about potential conflicts of interest were deliberated.

Despite claims from Trump’s defense that the relationship could influence the trial’s fairness, McAfee determined it did not constitute a conflict. However, he acknowledged the situation’s “significant appearance of impropriety,” necessitating Wade’s withdrawal from the case. Trump’s legal team expressed respect for the decision but hinted at dissatisfaction with the handling of what they consider prosecutorial misconduct.