Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer initiated the jury selection process for the Alec Baldwin 'Rust' shooting trial by questioning a group of potential jurors about their ability to remain impartial. One individual candidly admitted, 'I have extensively researched and reviewed the case, and I don't believe I can be fair.' Another prospective juror expressed bias related to unions and a strong inclination towards Baldwin, making them feel unable to be impartial.
During the proceedings, Judge Sommer informed the potential jurors that the trial was expected to last more than a week and inquired if this timeline would pose any undue hardships. Following this, a sidebar discussion took place between Special Prosecutor Kari Morrissey, Baldwin's defense attorney Alex Spiro, and the judge, resulting in the dismissal of two potential jurors.
