The initial seven jurors were chosen on Tuesday to participate in Donald Trump’s hush-money criminal trial. The ongoing selection process aims to assemble a panel of 12 members and six alternates who can impartially evaluate the case involving the former U.S. president.
The judge issued a stern warning to attorneys, emphasizing that he would not tolerate any attempts to intimidate potential jurors. This came after Donald Trump, the Republican candidate for the November 5th election, was overheard muttering during the questioning of a potential panel member.
Donald Trump is charged with 34 felony counts related to altering business records in an attempt to conceal a hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels just prior to the 2016 election. Daniels alleges a sexual encounter with Trump approximately ten years earlier.
Trump maintains his innocence and refutes any claims of an encounter. He characterizes the case, initiated by Democratic Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, as a politically motivated ‘witch hunt’ aimed at disrupting his bid to unseat Democratic President Joe Biden.
Trump is currently dealing with four criminal indictments, including the hush money case. These charges relate to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and allegations of mishandling classified information. While he has pleaded not guilty, it remains uncertain whether the other three cases will proceed to trial before the election.
"It is a stunning turnaround."
The first criminal trial of Donald Trump is going full steam ahead, with seven jurors already selected – and opening arguments possible as soon as Monday. @sbg1, @mjs_DC, and @harrylitman join @11thHour to discuss. pic.twitter.com/DFabWti2lS
— 11th Hour (@11thHour) April 17, 2024
On Tuesday, seven jurors were chosen. Among them were a man originally from Ireland who loves outdoor activities and keeps up with both MSNBC and Fox News. Additionally, a female oncology nurse who enjoys spending time at the park with her dog, and a corporate lawyer who admitted to not closely following the news.
During the questioning by Trump’s lawyer, Todd Blanche, on Tuesday, the nurse expressed that she did not hold a strong opinion about Trump.
But, she said, “No one is above the law.”
The process of selecting jurors commenced on Monday and is scheduled to continue on Thursday after a day off on Wednesday. Justice Juan Merchan indicated that opening statements might occur next Monday, although there could be potential delays.
The jury selection process for Donald Trump’s hush-money criminal trial in Manhattan has encountered difficulties in finding impartial jurors. Over half of the initial 96 jurors were dismissed on Monday because they expressed doubts about their ability to be fair.
On day two of former President Donald Trump’s historic “hush money” criminal trial in New York, the first seven jurors have been selected to serve. Lawyers for both sides clashed over which potential jurors should be seated, while the judge scolded Trump to remain quiet. pic.twitter.com/loYlBr8kiK
— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) April 16, 2024
During the jury selection process, Blanche inquired about the remaining jurors’ ability to be impartial toward Donald Trump as an individual. He emphasized that their political views were not relevant, but he wanted to assess their fairness in considering the case.
“It’s extraordinarily important to President Trump that we know that we’re going to get a fair shake,” the attorney said.
The identities of the jurors remain anonymous, but they are known to the attorneys on both sides. During questioning, several prospective jurors indicated that they did not hold strong opinions about Donald Trump, or they considered their opinions irrelevant to the case.
“If we were sitting in a bar, I’d be happy to tell you,” said one jury candidate, a man who works at a bookstore and enjoys going to Broadway shows. “But, in this room, what I feel about President Trump is not important.”
Judge Merchan ultimately dismissed the juror. During questioning by Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass earlier on Tuesday, he emphasized that the case was not a referendum on Donald Trump’s presidency.
“This case is really not about whether you like Donald Trump,” Steinglass said. “This case is about the rule of law and whether Donald Trump broke it.”
Judge Merchan informed lawyers from both sides that Donald Trump had been audibly muttering and gesturing while a prospective juror was being questioned. The judge instructed Trump’s lawyer, Mr. Blanche, to address this behavior with his client.
“I won’t tolerate that,” the judge said. “I will not have any jurors intimidated in the courtroom.”
Amid his ongoing legal challenges, Trump has consistently pushed the boundaries with judges. Currently, he faces a gag order issued by Judge Juan Merchan. This order explicitly prohibits Trump from making statements that could interfere with the case, especially those related to witnesses, court staff, and family members.
Judge Merchan has indicated that he will take the fines into consideration on April 23. According to Blanche, the former president’s actions were merely a response to their criticism of him.
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