Former President Donald Trump has demanded the removal of a gag order imposed on him in his hush money criminal trial, arguing that it infringes upon his constitutional rights. Speaking to reporters outside Manhattan Supreme Court, Trump expressed his frustration with the order, which prohibits him from publicly commenting on witnesses, jurors, court staff, and even the judge and the district attorney involved in the case.
Justice Juan Merchan, who issued the gag order, has been urged by the prosecution to hold Trump in contempt for allegedly violating the order multiple times, including through social media posts about his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who is expected to testify as a key witness. The prosecution has requested a fine of $3,000 and warned that Trump could face up to 30 days in jail if found in contempt of court.
Trump argued that he should be allowed to respond to statements made about him and emphasized his desire to speak openly, asserting that he and his team have done nothing wrong. He expressed frustration at being unable to counter what he referred to as lies and fabrications made by others. Trump questioned why he was being silenced when others were free to speak, stating his desire to address the press and tell the truth.
Jury selection for the trial continued on Friday, with the final five alternate jurors being chosen. A jury of 12, consisting of seven men and five women, was finalized on Thursday, and opening arguments are scheduled to commence on Monday.
The charges brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office accuse Trump of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment made to former adult film star Stormy Daniels in the lead-up to the 2016 election, allegedly to keep her silent about their alleged affair. Trump has vehemently denied the charges, labeling the case a “hoax” and claiming it to be “election interference.” He has also criticized Justice Merchan, referring to him as a “Trump hating judge” and calling for his recusal due to his daughter’s involvement in Democratic political campaigns.
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Do you believe that the gag order imposed on former President Donald Trump in his hush money criminal trial infringes upon his constitutional rights, or is it a necessary measure to ensure a fair trial?