HUNT VALLEY, Md. (TNND) — Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley recently met with Erika Kirk, chief executive of Turning Point USA and widow of political activist Charlie Kirk.
The two met in Grassley’s Washington, D.C. office, Grassley said in a social media post on Friday. It’s unclear what they spoke about.
Grassley and Erika Kirk have aligned since her husband’s killing, particularly on Erika’s plea for using cameras in the trial of Charlie’s alleged murderer. Grassley, who chairs the Senate judiciary committee, said in a speech on the Senate floor in November that Erika’s request was in line with a position he’s held for decades.
“I happen to believe that cameras in the federal courts, like state courts, would boost transparency and help Americans grow in confidence and understanding of the judiciary,” Grassley said.
“When pivotal moments in history happen, we shouldn’t be timid in calling for greater transparency that history demands in the federal courts.”
Some opponents of televised trials have voiced concerns about the effect that cameras could have on the courtroom. Judge Royce Lamberth of Washington, D.C.’s federal district court said in 2017 that O.J. Simpson’s 1995 murder trial, which involved intense media coverage, showed the consequences of camera access. The press tracked the case’s participants daily.
“I still am very much affected by O.J.,” Lamberth said.
“I’ve seen witnesses in my court who would be affected if video was there. I would not favor video even today at the trial level,” he added.
Have questions, concerns or tips? Send them to Ray at rjlewis@sbgtv.com.
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