Donald Trump’s Trial Over Alleged Hush Money Payments Resumes
Former US president Donald Trump faced accusations of violating a gag order in his trial over alleged hush money payments. Prosecutors urged Judge Juan Merchan to fine Trump $10,000 for repeatedly criticizing witnesses and others involved in the case.
Prosecutors’ Allegations
- Prosecutors accused Trump of violating the gag order in posts on the Truth Social media platform.
- New York prosecutor Christopher Conroy highlighted Trump’s continuous disobedience of the order.
- Conroy mentioned that Trump’s social media attacks led to a juror withdrawing due to privacy concerns.
Defence Statement
Trump’s defense attorney, Todd Blanche, argued that there was no willful violation of the gag order. Blanche stated that Trump is aware of the restrictions imposed by the order.
Courtroom Drama
During the trial, tensions rose as Judge Juan Merchan questioned the reasons behind Trump’s controversial posts. Blanche defended Trump’s responses, citing criticisms from Trump’s former attorney Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels.
Merchan expressed frustration with the slow pace of the hearing and urged Blanche to provide clear answers.
Trump’s Response
During a court break, Trump criticized Judge Merchan on his Truth Social platform, claiming his constitutional right to free speech was violated.
Trump’s post read: “HIGHLY CONFLICTED, TO PUT IT MILDLY, JUDGE JUAN MERCHAN, HAS TAKEN AWAY MY CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO FREE SPEECH. EVERYBODY IS ALLOWED TO TALK AND LIE ABOUT ME, BUT I AM NOT ALLOWED TO DEFEND MYSELF. THIS IS A KANGAROO COURT, AND THE JUDGE SHOULD RECUSE HIMSELF!”
