Federal Judge Tanya Chatkan set a trial date for the former president Donald Trump on March 4, 2024, in Washington, several months before the presidential elections in November. The former president is accused of trying to overturn the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

Chatkan, whose Trump had requested the exemption since his trial, he made the decision even though his lawyer, John Lauro, argued that the defense is called upon to examine an “avalanche” of evidence.

“The public is entitled to a speedy and efficient resolution of this matter,” the federal judge said.

“Prosecutors are pushing for a show trial,” he said, according to the Daily Mail.

“You’re not going to get another 2 years,” however, Chatkan clarified to Trump’s lawyer, rejecting his own proposed timetable. “This case is not going to be heard in 2026,” he clarified.

Prosecutors wanted Trump’s trial date to be set for January 2. Trump’s team proposed 2026, many months after the November presidential election.

Chatkan began the hearing in federal court in Washington, noting that, like any defendant, he will have to adjust his schedule to the date.