Former President Donald Trump is currently facing felony charges in New York City related to a 2016 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.
This trial is unprecedented as it marks the first instance in history where a former U.S. president is being tried on criminal charges.
Trump, who pleaded not guilty to a 34-count indictment last April, is accused of falsifying business records concerning the hush money payment made by his then-attorney Michael Cohen to Daniels in an effort to boost his chances in the 2016 presidential election.
Jury selection for the trial is anticipated to last up to two weeks, with the entire proceedings expected to span between six to eight weeks.
In recent developments, Trump expressed frustrations with scheduling conflicts caused by the trial, preventing him from attending important events such as his son’s graduation and Supreme Court oral arguments. Trump reiterated his concerns about the trial’s fairness, calling it a “scam” and a “political witch hunt.”
The trial judge, Juan Merchan, denied a defense request to excuse Trump from court proceedings to attend the Supreme Court arguments, emphasizing the importance of Trump’s presence in the New York trial.
During jury selection, several potential jurors were dismissed due to conflicts such as weddings or personal opinions that might affect their impartiality.
The remaining prospective jurors are being carefully questioned about their backgrounds and views to ensure a fair trial.
Judge Merchan listed potential witnesses for the trial, including Trump himself, Stormy Daniels, Michael Cohen, and various individuals associated with the Trump Organization and administration.
As the trial proceeds, Trump’s defense team faces an ultimatum from Judge Merchan to submit their proposed defense exhibits promptly or risk being barred from using them in the trial.
Defense attorney Todd Blanche requested an extension, citing the trial’s demands, but the judge declined, emphasizing the need for timely submission of materials.
This trial marks a significant legal milestone in American history, drawing attention to the legal accountability of a former U.S. president.
