The problem with Self-Defense trials & pleas is that the case is tried more so on narratives than the actual facts.

So the case isn't argued on the merits (ie. Who dunnit?) but whether or not the accused met the criteria for self-defense as per state law.

There's no doubt that the Assistant DA Binger was a true believer in the leftist ideology that Kyle should pay. He received lots of criticism from lawyers covering the trial that he would do anything to win as opposed to trying the facts & seeking justice.

The narrative at the time as well was that the DA's office itself didn't have full confidence in their case because the DA himself didn't try the case and instead sent his junior minion despite its high profile.