Former US President Donald Trump has asked the federal judge overseeing the Mar-a-Lago classified documents case to indefinitely postpone setting a trial date.

Trump, who is once again running for office in the upcoming election, expressed concerns over the investigation into leaked audio allegedly featuring him boasting about possessing classified military documents.

In a court filing, Trump’s attorneys argued that holding a trial during the presidential election cycle would create challenges in the jury selection process and limit the defendants’ ability to secure a fair and impartial adjudication.

They urged the judge to wait until after the presidential election season for a measured consideration and timeline that allows for a careful review of the procedures and legal issues involved.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to charges of mishandling sensitive documents and denies any wrongdoing.