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Jimmy Williams
Donald Trump’s lawyers asked a New York judge on Monday to lift a gag order placed on him during his hush money trial. They believe the reasons for the order no longer apply now that the trial is over.
Attorney Todd Blanche stated, “Now that the trial is concluded, the concerns articulated by the government and the Court do not justify continued restrictions on the First Amendment rights of President Trump.” Trump’s team argues that he has a “constitutional mandate for unrestrained campaign advocacy.”
Trump’s lawyers highlighted recent public comments made by President Joe Biden and other key figures. Biden recently called Trump a “convicted felon” and said he “snapped” after losing the 2020 election. Trump’s lawyers also pointed to remarks by Michael Cohen, Trump’s former attorney, and adult film actress Stormy Daniels, who both testified against Trump in the trial.
The gag order was initially put in place in March by Judge Juan Merchan. The order barred Trump from making public statements about witnesses, prosecutors, court staff, jurors, and their families. Judge Merchan expanded the order after Trump attacked his daughter on social media. Trump violated the gag order multiple times during the trial and was fined $10,000.
Prosecutors originally requested the gag order, citing Trump’s history of making inflammatory remarks. They argued it was necessary to ensure a fair trial. The order was supposed to last “for the duration of the trial,” but no end date was specified.
On Thursday, Trump was convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made to Stormy Daniels. Trump has always denied Daniels’ claims of a sexual encounter in 2006 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is set to be sentenced on July 11.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s office has not commented on Trump’s request to lift the gag order. Trump’s legal team wants a chance to submit a detailed argument if the court denies their request.
The Biden campaign has recently been more vocal about Trump’s legal issues. NBC News reported that the campaign considered a more aggressive stance. Trump’s team argues that Biden’s public comments about the verdict justify lifting the gag order. They also stress the importance of Trump being able to speak freely as he prepares for the upcoming presidential debate on June 27.
Trump’s legal battles continue to influence the political landscape as the 2024 presidential campaign heats up. Whether the court lifts the gag order will impact how Trump can campaign and respond to ongoing criticisms.
