A New York judge has ruled that former President Donald Trump's hush-money trial will proceed as scheduled, with jury selection starting on March 25. This decision comes despite demands from Trump's defense lawyers for a delay. The trial focuses on accusations that Trump sought to bury stories about extramarital affairs during his 2016 presidential campaign. It will be the first of four criminal prosecutions against Trump to go to trial.
Judge Juan Manuel Merchan's decision maintains the trial date, citing a delay in a separate Washington prosecution related to election interference efforts. The trial is expected to last up to six weeks. Trump's legal team argued that the trial date would interfere with his campaign schedule, particularly during a crucial period in the political calendar. However, Merchan stood by his decision, emphasizing that he had previously considered and rejected their arguments.
This marks Trump's first return to court in the New York case since becoming the first former president to be charged with a crime. Despite objections from his legal team, Merchan maintained that he can be fair and impartial. Trump is also awaiting a decision in a New York civil fraud case that could have significant financial implications for him. His lawyers have accused Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg of bringing the case to interfere with Trump's political ambitions.
The charges in the hush-money case carry a maximum sentence of four years in prison, although a conviction does not guarantee prison time. The case revolves around payments made to Stormy Daniels, Karen McDougal, and a Trump Tower doorman to suppress damaging stories about Trump, which he denies. Trump's legal team argues that no crime was committed, but the trial will proceed as scheduled, setting the stage for a significant legal showdown for the former president.
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