A New York judge presiding over former President Donald Trump’s “hush money” criminal trial has officially ruled that former President Donald Trump is not permitted to attend the upcoming Supreme Court hearings that will address his claims of presidential immunity. The decision was announced amidst ongoing legal proceedings this week. New York law requires the defendant’s presence at trial unless leave is granted by the judge.
Trump’s Request to Attend Son’s Graduation Postponed
Additionally, the judge has deferred his decision regarding whether Trump can attend his son Barron’s high school graduation in May. The ruling on this matter remains pending, adding more tension to the already high-stakes legal battles Trump is facing.
Ongoing Hush Money Trial in Manhattan
Trump’s legal team had sought approval for Trump to take specific days off from the trial, which began its first day focused on preliminary legal issues and jury selection. The trial, taking place in Manhattan, is expected to extend for several weeks or months.
Judge Denies Trump’s Request to Travel
In a crucial decision, Judge Juan Merchan denied Trump’s request to travel to Washington, D.C., for the Supreme Court oral arguments scheduled for April 25. This hearing is related to Trump’s claims of presidential immunity in his federal criminal case. The denial came as the day’s session in New York was concluding.
Importance of Both Court Appearances Highlighted
Judge Merchan, addressing Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche, emphasized the significance of being present at both the Supreme Court and the New York Supreme Court. He rejected the notion that one was less important than the other, insisting on Trump’s attendance at the trial in New York.
Legal Requirements for Trump’s Attendance
Under New York state law, Trump is mandated to be present for the entirety of his trial unless he receives special permission from the court to be absent. This stipulation underscores the gravity of the legal proceedings and the strict adherence required from all parties involved.
Trump Expresses Discontent
Following the adjournment, Trump voiced his dissatisfaction, accusing Judge Merchan of placing himself above the Supreme Court by preventing his attendance at the crucial oral arguments.
Concerns Over Missing Son’s Graduation
Trump also expressed his disappointment over potentially missing his son Barron’s graduation. He lamented the possibility of not being able to share that moment with Barron’s mother and himself, criticizing the judge for what he referred to as obstructing his personal life.
Trump Calls Trial a “Scam”
In remarks made outside the courtroom, Trump vehemently labeled the ongoing trial as a “scam.” He conveyed a strong sense of injustice about the proceedings, framing them as unfair and prejudiced against him.
Criticism of Manhattan DA
Trump also took a moment to criticize Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who had been present throughout the day at the trial. He suggested that Bragg’s attention might be better directed toward addressing the crime issues plaguing the city rather than attending the trial.
The Charges Against Trump
The case against Trump involves 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. This payment, facilitated by Trump’s former lawyer Michael Cohen, was allegedly aimed at suppressing information about an affair prior to the 2016 election.
Trump’s Plea and Denial of Affair
Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges and denies any involvement in an affair with Daniels. This stance has been consistent since the allegations first surfaced, forming a core part of his defense.
Jury Selection Underway
The process of jury selection, which began after an initial focus on legal arguments and a lunch break, is expected to be a lengthy phase of the trial. It is projected to continue over the next several days, if not weeks.
A High-Profile Trial Continues
As the trial proceeds, all eyes will remain on the developments each day brings. With significant legal and personal implications at stake, the outcome of this trial will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment in Trump’s post-presidential life.
