In a new development, Judge Juan Merchan has broadened the gag order in the hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump.
This decision comes on the heels of Trump’s recent personal attacks directed at the daughter of the presiding judge, raising concerns about impartiality in the upcoming trial.
Under the extended order, Trump is not only prohibited from targeting potential witnesses, jury members, and court staff but also their immediate family members.
The move follows Trump’s unfounded accusations against Loren Merchan, the daughter of the judge, which were shared on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Judge Merchan stated that such attacks serve no legitimate purpose and only instill fear among those involved in the proceedings.
This expansion of the gag order represents the judge’s commitment to upholding order and integrity in the trial proceedings, which are set to commence on April 15.
Hope Hicks to testify
In another significant development, former Trump aide Hope Hicks is expected to testify as a prosecution witness in the hush money case.
Hicks, who served as Trump’s communications director during his 2016 presidential campaign, has previously provided crucial testimony regarding Trump’s alleged campaign finance violations.
Hicks’ testimony is anticipated to shed light on several pivotal aspects of the case, including her involvement in phone calls related to payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels to conceal an alleged extramarital affair with Trump.
Her cooperation with prosecutors underscores the significant role she may play in bolstering the case against the former president.
The inclusion of Hicks and other key witnesses, such as former Playboy model Karen McDougal and American Media, Inc. CEO David Pecker, underscores the gravity of the trial and its potential implications for Trump and his associates.
As the trial date approaches, anticipation mounts for what promises to be a contentious courtroom showdown.
The outcome of the trial holds substantial ramifications for Trump and his inner circle, making it a focal point of national attention and scrutiny.
