Judge Juan Merchan has confirmed that there are currently two motions for recusal pending in the case, one before him and another before a New York appeals court. He has stated that he will issue a decision from the bench regarding the motion before him.
During the proceedings, Merchan addressed former President Donald Trump's allegations that he should be recused from the case. Trump's claims were based on an interview Merchan gave to the Associated Press about his preparations for the trial.
Merchan carefully considered Trump's assertions, specifically focusing on the interview with the Associated Press and comments made in 2019 regarding politicians using Twitter. After thorough evaluation, Merchan concluded that these allegations do not demonstrate any bias on his part.
Throughout the hearing, Trump remained composed and faced the judge directly as Merchan delivered his decision.