Jurors for Donald Trump’s historic criminal trial were chosen Thursday. They’ll decide his guilt over a hush-money payment to a porn star.
Defense and prosecution lawyers will select alternate jurors. Opening statements may start Monday, according to Justice Juan Merchan.
Earlier, a juror was dismissed for feeling intimidated by personal information made public. Another was excused for not disclosing prior brushes with the law.
Trump’s public presence complicated jury selection. Half of the first 196 jurors were dismissed for bias. Trump’s criticism sparked concerns about harassment.
Merchan imposed a partial gag order. A juror felt intimidated by outside influences. Trump faces criminal cases in Washington, Georgia, and Florida.
He’s pleaded not guilty and accused Democrats of targeting him. In New York, Trump is accused of covering up a payment to Stormy Daniels.
He denies any encounter with her. Cohen, his former lawyer, pleaded guilty to campaign finance violations. Trump’s lawyers will question Cohen’s credibility.
Merchan has shielded jurors’ identities from the public. Prosecutors allege Trump violated the gag order. One of Trump’s lawyers disagrees.
