Former President Donald Trump has expressed strong opposition to a gag order imposed by New York Judge Juan M. Merchan in his upcoming hush-money criminal trial. The gag order prohibits Trump from publicly commenting on witnesses, prosecutors, court staff, and jurors involved in the case.
Trump took to social media to denounce the gag order, labeling it as 'illegal, un-American, unConstitutional.' He accused Judge Merchan of infringing on his First Amendment rights and attempting to silence him in the face of what he perceives as political targeting by Democratic rivals.
Notably, Trump also criticized Merchan's daughter, a Democratic political consultant, for posting a photo on social media depicting him behind bars. While the gag order does not extend to comments about Merchan or his family, it restricts Trump from making certain public statements related to the trial.
Despite Trump's objections, Judge Merchan cited the former president's history of making 'threatening, inflammatory, denigrating' remarks about individuals involved in his legal cases as grounds for the gag order. The order aims to prevent interference with the trial process and protect the integrity of the case.
Trump's legal team had contested the gag order, arguing that it violated his free speech rights. However, Judge Merchan ultimately deemed it necessary as the trial date approaches to ensure a fair and secure legal proceeding.
The hush-money case against Trump centers on allegations of falsifying payments to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, during the 2016 campaign to cover up negative stories. Trump has pleaded not guilty to charges of falsifying business records and maintains his innocence.
Violation of the gag order could result in Trump facing contempt of court charges, fines, or even imprisonment. The trial is scheduled to commence on April 15, with Trump facing potential legal consequences if found guilty of the charges brought against him.
