The first criminal trial of former President Donald Trump began with signs of frustration as he was restricted in what he could say in court and told to sit down by the judge. Trump, who is accused of using hush money payments to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, expressed his disappointment with being in court instead of on the campaign trail. He accused the district attorney’s office of interfering in the 2024 presidential election by keeping him off the campaign trail and restricting his ability to speak freely. Trump promised to testify at the trial, which he referred to as a “witch hunt,” and emphasized his belief that the process was unfair.
The trial, expected to last up to six weeks, saw drama both inside and outside the courthouse. Prospective jurors were asked questions to determine their impartiality, with one juror being excused due to anxiety and another acknowledging a social media post calling Trump “the devil” before being dismissed. Trump’s defense team looked visibly downcast during the proceedings, with lead attorney Todd Blanche and others appearing frustrated by the judge’s decisions. Despite their attempts to argue for presidential immunity and other motions, the judge indicated that the trial would proceed as planned with opening statements scheduled for Monday morning.
Outside the courthouse, a man set himself on fire in a park facing the court, adding to the intense atmosphere surrounding the trial. Trump’s statements to reporters and in a fundraising email reflected his frustration with the legal proceedings, as he criticized the district attorney’s office and the judge’s restrictions on his social media attacks against potential witnesses. Despite these challenges, Trump vowed to continue fighting against what he believes is a politically motivated case designed to undermine his reputation and potential return to the political arena.
As the first week of the trial came to a close, a full 12-person jury and six alternates were seated by Judge Merchan who had dismissed several potential jurors based on their perceived biases. The defense team appeared resigned to the judge’s decisions, with attorney Susan Necheles expressing her frustrations while lead attorney Todd Blanche engaged in occasional conversations with Trump during the proceedings. Although Trump’s defense team attempted to argue for further consideration of certain motions, the judge maintained that the trial would proceed with opening statements scheduled for the following week. Despite the challenges and frustrations experienced during the first week of the trial, Trump remained committed to defending himself and seeking justice in what he views as a politically charged legal battle.
