Judge Juan Merchan is considering whether to fine Donald Trump for multiple violations of a gag order in the criminal hush money case involving his former lawyer Michael Cohen. The Manhattan district attorney’s office filed a motion accusing Trump of discussing witnesses and jurors on social media, in violation of the gag order. Prosecutors are seeking a fine of $1,000 per violation and a reminder to Trump of the potential consequences, including fines and possibly incarceration.
The prosecutors argue that it is crucial for the court to remind Trump that he is a criminal defendant and subject to court supervision, just like any other defendant. Despite the gag order, Trump has continued to engage in public feuds with Cohen, who has been a key witness for the prosecution. Trump has expressed frustration that he is not allowed to respond to Cohen’s statements about him. Cohen, on the other hand, has responded on social media, challenging Trump to take the stand in his defense.
Cohen previously served time in federal prison after pleading guilty to breaking campaign finance laws related to a payment to Stormy Daniels, which is a central part of the hush money case against Trump. Trump’s lawyers have argued that his social media posts do not violate the gag order, as they are responses to attacks related to the campaign. However, prosecutors have cited Trump’s posts on Truth Social as clear violations of the order, including posts about Cohen and the jury.
During a hearing before Judge Merchan, Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche accused Cohen of being obsessed with taking down Trump, noting recent social media posts by Cohen attacking Trump. The judge instructed the jury to arrive for the second day of the trial, but the gag order violations were not part of the proceedings. The hearing is scheduled to continue later if necessary, as court proceedings are limited due to the Passover holiday.
Overall, the case highlights the ongoing legal battles and public feuds surrounding Trump and the hush money case. The court is tasked with enforcing the gag order and ensuring that all parties involved comply with the restrictions on discussing the case. The potential fines and consequences for future violations serve as a reminder to Trump that he is still subject to court supervision as a criminal defendant. The ongoing tensions between Trump and Cohen add another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings.
