Trump’s “hush room” case: Jury selected for trial – Breaking News
Former US President Donald Trump appeared in Manhattan Criminal Court in New York for the third hearing of the case in which he is accused of paying a “hush fee” to an adult film actress before the 2016 presidential elections. The selection of the 12-person jury panel is ongoing, with candidates being questioned about their political views, news preferences, social media posts, and relations with Trump and his political supporters.
Judge Juan Merchan announced the completion of the 12-person jury at the end of the day, with one of the 6 substitute members also determined. Prosecutors alleged that Trump violated a speech ban multiple times during previous hearings. Prosecutor Chris Conroy stated, “This is ridiculous and it must stop.” The trial will continue with the selection of remaining spare jurors.
In a statement after the hearing, Trump expressed frustration at having to be in court instead of campaigning for the 2024 presidential race. He complained about the cold courtroom saying, “I freeze in that icy courtroom from morning until night.”
The trial began this week, with Trump facing charges of paying a “hush fee” and falsifying records to cover it up. Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass requested a fine for Trump’s violation of the speech ban. The case is significant as Trump is the first former US President to be tried in a criminal case in US history. He may face up to 4 years in prison if convicted.
