Judge Scott McAfee in Georgia is allowing former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants to appeal a ruling that allowed Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to continue prosecuting the election interference case against them. The judge's decision came after defense attorneys requested the Georgia Court of Appeals to review his ruling, which denied the defense's request to disqualify Willis from the case or dismiss the indictment over her romantic relationship with special prosecutor Nathan Wade. Wade resigned from his position, allowing Willis to remain on the case. However, Judge McAfee criticized Willis for her "tremendous lapse in judgment" and questioned the truthfulness of Wade's and her testimony about their relationship. Trump's team believes that a failure to remove Willis could jeopardize any convictions and potentially force a retrial if an appeals court later finds it necessary. The defense is optimistic that appellate review will lead to the case being dismissed and Willis being disqualified from prosecuting. Willis and Wade admitted to their romantic relationship but denied any wrongdoing, with Willis stating that their relationship ended last summer. The Georgia Court of Appeals could decline to hear the case, in which case defense lawyers could seek review from the state Supreme Court. The defendants argue that the relationship between Wade and Willis created an appearance of impropriety that could compromise the prosecution's independence and judgment. Willis accepted Wade's resignation, praising his dedication to justice and patriotism. Trump and his co-defendants face charges of engaging in a scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia. They have pleaded not guilty to all charges. The public perception of the prosecution remains uncertain, especially given Trump's continuous attacks on Willis and Wade.