The article describes the daily routine of former President Donald Trump as he attends his criminal trial in New York. Before his arrival, everyone in the courtroom, except for the judge and jurors, must be seated and pass through security screening. Reporters, members of the public, prosecutors, and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg are all present in the courtroom as Trump enters. Trump is being tried on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a “hush money” payment before the 2016 presidential election, and he denies the allegations.
Once Trump enters the courtroom with his team of lawyers and Secret Service agents, his demeanor changes. He is accompanied by a team of lawyers and campaign staff, and once seated at the defense table, he is quiet and reserved. During jury selection, he observes the proceedings with minimal engagement, often staring straight ahead. Previously, Trump’s behavior in civil trials was more disruptive, with outbursts and witness intimidation accusations. However, as a criminal defendant, he is required to attend the entire trial and sit quietly unless granted permission to do otherwise.
Trump’s requests for trial adjournments for personal reasons have been denied by Judge Juan Merchan, who has also addressed Trump’s complaints about the courtroom temperature. Merchan maintains control over the courtroom, instructing Trump to sit or rise when appropriate. At the conclusion of each day’s proceedings, Trump leaves the courtroom with his team, often making statements to reporters in the hallway. The article describes the tension within the courtroom as Bragg and his team attempt to leave through a side door, only to return frustrated and annoyed.
Despite the daily routine and interactions in the courtroom, Trump’s behavior as a criminal defendant has been relatively subdued compared to his behavior in civil trials. Merchan maintains control over the courtroom, ensuring that proceedings run smoothly and without unnecessary disruptions or delays. Trump’s presence in the courtroom has drawn attention from the media and the public, with reporters documenting his every move and interaction during the trial. The article provides an inside look at the daily proceedings of Trump’s criminal trial and the dynamics within the courtroom as the case unfolds.
