Politics
Trump Criminal Trial Begins
On Monday morning, the unprecedented criminal trial of former President Donald Trump commenced with the commencement of jury selection. This marks the initiation of a process anticipated to extend over two weeks.
This trial represents the first instance in American history where a president faces criminal charges in court. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, has leveled 34 felony charges against Trump, alleging the falsification of documents to cover up a sex scandal. Conviction could potentially result in jail time for Trump.
In a statement shared on Truth Social on Monday, Trump expressed his conviction, stating, “As I step into that courtroom, I am buoyed by the support of 200 million Americans, and I am determined to advocate for the liberty of 325 million Americans!”
Throughout of the trial, Trump is anticipated to be present in the courtroom and may even testify while simultaneously carrying out his presidential campaign activities. It’s projected that the trial could extend into June.
Trump voiced his belief on Monday that the court case constitutes election interference, questioning why the lawsuit wasn’t filed seven years ago when he believes it was already discredited. This sentiment was expressed through a post on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Once the 12 jurors are chosen, they will be tasked with evaluating Mr. Cohen’s testimony firsthand. He is anticipated to be the prosecution’s key witness, confronting a former employer whom he once admired but now holds disdain for.
The process of jury selection holds significant importance for both the prosecution and the defense. Prosecutors enjoy a certain advantage, given that the jury pool is drawn from Manhattan, a notably Democratic stronghold in the United States. Conversely, Mr. Trump’s legal team will be seeking to identify sympathetic jurors amidst a predominantly Democratic jury pool
On Monday, Trump expressed frustration over a broad gag order that restricts his ability to speak out. He asserted that the judge’s decision to silence him is unconstitutional, claiming it unfairly hinders his ability to defend himself while allowing the opposing side to freely discuss him. Trump labeled the trial as rigged due to these constraints.