Dozens of potential jurors were dismissed from Donald Trump’s unprecedented criminal trial in New York due to concerns about impartiality. Trump faces accusations of falsifying business records to hide a hush-money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election, which he won.
On the first day of proceedings, 60 out of 96 potential jurors quickly expressed their inability to be impartial. This initial wave of dismissals highlighted the challenge of finding a jury for such a unique case, which involves a high-profile sex scandal and a former president seeking reelection.
As jury selection continued into the next day, about 34 potential jurors remained after the dismissals. They underwent rigorous questioning, including inquiries about their news consumption habits and any connections to Donald Trump, such as attending his rallies or reading his books.
Following the questioning, 18 potential jurors were randomly selected to be seated in the jury box. Each individual answered the questionnaire, providing insight into their suitability to serve on the jury.
Despite some jurors expressing affiliations like reading the Wall Street Journal or listening to NPR, they were not immediately dismissed. However, one prospective juror was excused after admitting to having strong opinions about Donald Trump and his candidacy for president.
Throughout the selection process, both Trump’s legal team and prosecutors remained vigilant, ensuring that the jury pool was fair and impartial. The identities of the jurors were kept anonymous due to the case’s high-profile nature.
Quiet Demeanor
While the jury selection proceeded, Trump maintained a quiet demeanor in court, engaging in conversation with his lawyers but refraining from making public remarks. His legal team dismissed reports of him appearing fatigued or falling asleep during the proceedings, labeling such claims as “fake news.”
Outside the courtroom, Trump denounced the trial as “nonsense” and characterized it as an “assault on America.” However, inside the courtroom, prosecutors raised concerns about Trump’s social media activity potentially violating a gag order imposed by Justice Juan Merchan. The order prohibited Trump from making public comments about individuals involved in the case, including potential witnesses.
As the trial progressed, the judge addressed evidentiary matters, including whether leaked audio of Trump from a 2016 recording should be admissible. While the judge declined to allow the audio to be played for jurors, prosecutors were permitted to reference Trump’s remarks in the recording.
Throughout the day, supporters and protesters gathered outside the courthouse, reflecting the polarizing nature of the case. Some cheered for Trump, while others called for his conviction.
This hush-money trial is just one of several criminal cases facing Trump, but it could be the only one to go to trial before the 2024 presidential election. If convicted, Trump would be the first major-party nominee to run for president as a convicted felon, although no law prohibits him from doing so.
Justice Merchan rejected a defense request for Trump to be excused from the trial to attend Supreme Court arguments on immunity claims raised in another criminal case. Emphasizing the importance of the trial, Justice Merchan insisted that Trump be present in court.
As the trial continues, it remains a focal point in the broader legal challenges surrounding Trump’s presidency and political future.
