In a recent hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump, Judge Juan Merchan held a hearing to address the prosecution’s allegations against Trump for violating the gag order. The prosecution is seeking a $1,000 fine for each alleged violation, but they are not seeking jail time for Trump. Trump was previously fined $9,000 for nine violations of the gag order.
During the hearing, prosecutors argued that Trump’s statements are impacting the fairness of the trial and are making it about politics. They emphasized that Trump is aware of the parameters of the gag order, as his attorney assured the court that he understood what he was allowed to do and not allowed to do. Prosecutors reiterated that they were not seeking jail time for Trump for the violations.
Trump’s attorney defended his client, stating that upcoming witnesses, Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels, do not need to be protected. He argued that Cohen has been inviting Trump to respond to his statements and that Daniels should not be covered by the gag order. The judge clarified that the order prohibits Trump from referring to foreseeable witnesses, regardless of their statements.
Regarding Trump’s comments about David Pecker, former National Enquirer publisher, Trump’s attorney argued that calling him “nice” did not violate the gag order. However, the judge emphasized that Trump’s comments could affect other witnesses in the case. Trump’s attorney also addressed Trump’s interactions with the press, stating that Trump cannot respond to every social media post or media coverage of the trial.
Judge Merchan acknowledged that he does not have authority over the press or individuals making statements about the trial. He pointed out that there are no surprises when it comes to media coverage of a high-profile case involving a leading presidential candidate like Trump. Merchan did not immediately issue a ruling on the prosecution’s allegations against Trump for violating the gag order, but the hearing shed light on the ongoing challenges in ensuring a fair trial process.
