A recent financial disclosure has uncovered a previously undisclosed connection between Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee and Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, as reported by the Daily Caller. McAfee, who currently presides over the high-profile case involving former President Donald Trump, donated $150 to Willis’ campaign in June 2020. Additionally, McAfee’s wife contributed $99 to Willis’ campaign in 2020 and $101 in 2018.

The revelation of this donation, detailed in a comprehensive Campaign Contribution Disclosure Report for Willis’ campaign, underscores the complex interplay between legal and political spheres in Fulton County.

McAfee, appointed by Georgia’s Republican Governor Brian Kemp and taking office on February 1, 2023, made the contribution while serving as an assistant U.S. Attorney for the Department of Justice.

Despite the seemingly small sum, questions have arisen regarding the independence of the judiciary, particularly in such a high-stakes case as the prosecution of a former President.

According to the New York Times, McAfee previously worked under Fani Willis during his time at the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, a detail that adds nuance to the situation. However, McAfee’s conservative affiliations, including his involvement with the Federalist Society and the Law Republicans during law school, offer another layer to the narrative.

Atlanta-based criminal defense attorney and legal analyst Philip Holloway emphasized the importance of disclosing such contributions to defendants, as judges are mandated to avoid even the appearance of conflicts of interest. This disclosure comes amidst McAfee’s oversight of proceedings against Donald Trump, including recent hearings regarding motions to disqualify the district attorney.