Atlanta, Georgia – Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis delivered a heartfelt speech on Sunday at the Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Atlanta. In her address, she indirectly acknowledged the affair allegations levied against her while defending the special prosecutor she appointed for the election interference case against former President Donald Trump.
During the service to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Willis lightened the atmosphere, jokingly saying, “I hope for y’all this week I don’t look like what I’ve been through.” However, the seriousness of the situation could not be denied, as one of Trump’s co-defendants in the election interference case seeks to dismiss the indictment against him and disqualify Willis. The defendant claims that she engaged in a romantic relationship with a top prosecutor involved in the case, which allegedly resulted in financial gain for both of them.
In a court filing, the former Trump campaign staff member, Michael Roman, accused Willis of potentially defrauding the public by intentionally failing to disclose the alleged relationship. Roman’s attorney alleged that the prosecutor appointed to the role, Nathan Wade, lacked relevant experience but received approximately $650,000 in legal fees, suggesting a self-serving arrangement.
Throughout her speech, Willis referred to herself as flawed and imperfect. She defended her decision to appoint multiple special prosecutors for the case and passionately defended Wade, asserting that the attacks against him were potentially motivated by race.
While she did not directly address the allegations of an inappropriate relationship, Willis highlighted Wade’s qualifications, emphasizing his previous experience as a prosecutor, criminal defense lawyer, and special assistant attorney general. She questioned why only one special prosecutor was being targeted, suggesting that race may be a factor in the scrutiny.
The emotional nature of Willis’ speech was evident as she spoke about the challenges she has faced as Fulton County District Attorney. She described feelings of isolation, loneliness, and facing constant death threats that have forced her out of her own home. Willis acknowledged feeling unworthy of her position and expressed gratitude for the attacks against her, as they only made her stronger.
In her address, she specifically called out Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, expressing her desire to not be consumed by hate like those who attack her. Willis also highlighted the achievements of her team, boasting a 95% conviction rate and emphasizing their numerous victories.
It is worth noting that Roman, Trump, and 17 others pleaded not guilty to all charges in a sweeping racketeering indictment related to their alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia. Despite the criticism, Willis remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice, with the former president dismissing her investigation as politically motivated.