As the first criminal trial of a president entered its fourth day, Donald Trump displayed signs of frustration. Amidst a flurry of unfavorable opinions from New Yorkers, constraints on his courtroom discourse, and even a gentle reprimand from the judge, Trump’s patience wore thin.
During Friday’s proceedings, Judge Juan Merchan politely reminded Trump to remain seated as he attempted to leave. Upon returning to the defense table, Trump left the courtroom, visibly fatigued, vowing to testify in what he denounced as a “witch hunt” trial.
Trump’s remarks punctuated a week rife with power shifts and inverted accusations. Facing allegations of using hush money payments to influence the 2016 election, Trump sought to mount a counter-narrative in the court of public opinion.
Expressing his frustration to reporters, Trump lamented being tied up in court proceedings instead of engaging in campaign activities. He accused the district attorney’s office of meddling in the 2024 election by constraining his campaign activities.
Trump’s discontent was further fueled by the judge’s directive to temper his social media attacks against potential witnesses, leading him to claim he was “FULLY GAGGED” in a fundraising email to supporters.
Outside the courthouse, a tragic incident unfolded as a man set himself on fire, casting a somber tone over the day’s events. Meanwhile, inside the courtroom, prospective jurors underwent scrutiny, with one excused for anxiety and others questioned about their impartiality.
Despite assurances of fairness, several potential jurors faced dismissal due to past social media activity critical of Trump. By Friday afternoon, a jury of 12, along with six alternates, was selected, setting the stage for Monday’s opening statements.
Throughout the proceedings, Trump’s defense team appeared disheartened, with lead attorney Todd Blanche engaging in last-minute discussions with the judge. Despite setbacks, the trial presses forward, with both sides gearing up for a protracted legal battle.
“This sounds suspiciously like the 10 minutes we spent arguing this on Monday … with no new facts, no new application of the law,” Merchan responded.
“There’s nothing else to re-argue,” he added as the first week of the trial came to a close. “We’re going to have opening statements Monday morning. This trial is starting.”
