Judge Juan Merchan is set to preside over a hearing on Tuesday regarding allegations that former President Trump violated the gag order imposed on him in his criminal trial. The Manhattan District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, and prosecutors claim that Trump breached the gag order by posting on social media.
Before the trial commenced, Judge Merchan had issued a gag order prohibiting Trump from making public statements about witnesses, counsel, court staff, or jurors. Despite this, Trump allegedly made multiple public statements in violation of the order, prompting Bragg to request fines and potential incarceration for further violations.
Trump and his defense team argue that the gag order infringes on his First Amendment rights and those of his supporters. The hearing on the alleged violation must conclude by 11 a.m. Tuesday, with the possibility of continuation if needed.
Following the gag order hearing, the jury is expected to hear testimony from David Pecker, the former CEO of American Media and National Enquirer publisher. Pecker, a prosecution witness, is said to have participated in a scheme with Trump and former attorney Michael Cohen to influence the 2016 election by suppressing negative stories.
During opening arguments, prosecutors accused Trump of falsifying business records related to hush money payments to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Trump, who faces 34 counts of falsifying business records, maintains his innocence and denounces the trial as politically motivated.
Trump's defense attorney asserts that the former president acted lawfully to protect his reputation and brand, emphasizing that defending oneself against false allegations is not a crime. Trump has vowed to testify truthfully if called to the stand.
