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Ex-US President Donald Trump and staffer Bannon in January 2017
Photo: Carlos Barria / REUTERS
Former President Donald Trump's chief strategist Stephen Bannon is expected to appear in court on Monday for contempt of Congress.
The 68-year-old failed again on Thursday in an attempt to postpone the start of the trial until October, as reported by the US broadcaster CNBC from the courtroom.
Bannon's attorneys argued that the widespread media coverage of Bannon and the investigative committee into the Capitol attack could adversely affect the jury.
"We will still be in court on Monday," the broadcaster quoted Judge Carl Nichols as saying.
The court had previously denied a similar request by Bannon.
Jury selection is scheduled to begin on Monday.
Bannon was charged with contempt of Congress last November for ignoring a subpoena from the investigative committee.
He was also accused of failing to provide requested documents.
The judge released Bannon conditionally pending a verdict.
Bannon had recently promised to testify before the committee – albeit under conditions.
It is unclear when and if Bannon could testify before the committee.
Stephen Bannon is a co-founder of the right-wing internet platform »Breitbart« and is one of the most influential voices in the ultra-conservative camp of US politics.
He is credited with playing a key role in Trump's surprising election success at the time.
Mother Jones magazine recently released an audio file on which Bannon is said to be heard a few days before the 2020 presidential election.
“What Trump will do is declare victory.
Right?
He will announce victory.
But that doesn't mean he's a winner," Bannon reportedly said.
aeh/dpa
