Former President Donald Trump is back at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club following his arraignment in Washington, D.C.

Former President Donald Trump spoke briefly at Reagan National Airport after leaving the D.C. District Court.

"This is a very sad day for America," he said before boarding his plane.

"This is a persecution of a political opponent," he added.

Special prosecutor Tom Windom approached the bench and requested a speedy trial.

"This case will benefit from normal order including a speedy trial," Windom said.

But the defense said it needs ample opportunity to review a massive amount of evidence to be entered by the government.

Defense attorney John Lauro told the judge they need an "understanding" from the government about the "magnitude of discovery," including electronic data and documents.

The judge responded to Windom by saying the court would ensure a "fair trial" without elaborating.

"There will be a fair process and a fair trial in this court," the judge said. "I am certain of that."

Still, Lauro continued to raise issues, saying of special counsel Jack Smith: "They've had 3 1/2 years to investigate this matter, and also there's a number of agents and lawyers that are assisting the government in this proceeding, and all we would ask is the opportunity to fairly defend our client, but in order to do that we're going to need a little time."

The judge told Lauro to raise any concerns with the district judge overseeing the trial.

-ABC News' Soorin Kim and Mike Levine

The arraignment hearing has ended. Former President Donald Trump and his team have left the courtroom.

-ABC News' Mike Levine

Former President Donald Trump knocked his clasped hands on the table and, for a few seconds, stared toward special counsel Jack Smith as he waited for U.S. Magistrate Judge Moxila Upadhyaya to enter the courtroom.

-ABC News' Mike Levine