Donald Trump complained about the restrictions on the number of prospective jurors his lawyers could reject at his New York criminal hush money trial. He believed that they should have unlimited chances to reject jurors but state law limits the number of strikes without cause. Trump received the correct number of strikes given the charges he faces, which include 10 peremptory strikes for jurors and additional strikes for alternate jurors. He expressed frustration over the limitations, particularly in a venue like New York City, which he feels is biased against him.
The trial in Manhattan Supreme Court saw the selection of seven jurors with more to be seated as the process continues. Both the defense and prosecution are given a set number of peremptory strikes in criminal trials in New York. Trump faces charges of falsifying business records, which fall under Class E felonies with the fewest challenges available. Legal experts point out that if there were unlimited strikes as Trump wants, it would lead to impractical jury selections.
Trump’s complaints on Truth Social show a lack of understanding of the law according to some legal experts. Despite facing four pending criminal cases, his comments suggest a lack of knowledge about the rules governing jury selection. Trump’s attorneys and prosecutors can request to strike potential jurors for cause, including an inability to be impartial. The trial judge rejected at least one such request by Trump’s attorneys, adding to the complexity of the jury selection process.
While initial expectations of a lengthy jury selection process were in place, the current pace suggests that opening statements could begin sooner. Trump criticized the judge for “rushing,” and expressed concern over the trial’s length affecting his election campaign plans. The charges against Trump relate to a hush money payment made to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election, with the Manhattan District Attorney alleging election interference on Trump’s part by silencing Daniels.
Following a court session, Trump visited a store in Harlem which was the site of a fatal stabbing involving a controversial charging decision by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office. The store clerk involved was initially charged with murder but had the charges dropped later, leading to public outcry. The District Attorney’s office defended its actions, stating that the matter was resolved after a thorough investigation and highlighting their efforts to combat violent crime in Manhattan. The trial against Trump continues, with further jury selection and legal proceedings expected in the coming days.
