Former President Trump's defense attorneys are seeking a mistrial following the testimony of pornographic actress Stormy Daniels during the ongoing trial. The defense team, led by attorney Todd Blanche, raised concerns about the prejudicial nature of Daniels' testimony on Tuesday morning.
During a court session after lunch, Blanche informed Judge Juan Merchan that Daniels' testimony had been inflammatory and potentially damaging to their case. However, Judge Merchan ruled against declaring a mistrial, stating that he had been actively managing the situation and had even objected to some of Daniels' testimony himself.
Blanche argued that the prosecution was attempting to sway the jury by introducing irrelevant evidence related to Daniels' alleged consensual sexual encounter with Trump in 2016. He claimed that Daniels had been trying to profit from her story since that time.
Blanche highlighted the focus of Daniels' recent testimony on issues of consent and danger, which he contended differed from her narrative in 2016. He expressed concern that such testimony could irreparably harm their defense strategy.
Despite the defense's objections during Daniels' testimony, Blanche acknowledged that she was able to convey her message effectively. He questioned the feasibility of recovering from the impact of her testimony and ensuring a fair trial for former President Trump.
Blanche concluded by calling for a mistrial or, alternatively, requested that Daniels' testimony be restricted or excluded from the proceedings to safeguard the fairness of the trial.
