Judge Eases Restrictions on Trump in Hush Money Case
After Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, was found guilty of conspiring to rig the 2016 election by offering a porn star money in exchange for her silence, a New York judge partially lifted the gag order against him in hush money case. The new order limits what Trump can say about specific prosecutors and other parties involved, but permits him to openly discuss case witnesses and the jury.
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Justice Juan Merchan emphasised the importance of protecting jurors’ anonymity and safety, citing recent threats against them. Merchan wrote that there is sufficient evidence to support jurors’ ongoing concerns. Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the partial lift, arguing for the complete removal of the gag order, which he claims restricts his campaign speech.
Trump’s Legal Team Challenges Gag Order Ahead of Key Debate in Hush Money Case
Trump’s legal team contended that the gag order limited his ability to respond to political attacks, particularly with an upcoming debate against Democratic President Joe Biden.
In this case, which was the first criminal trial of a sitting US president, Trump was found guilty of concealing a $130,000 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels from his former attorney, Michael Cohen. On July 11, the day before the Republican convention, sentencing is set to take place.
