After consistent efforts and public outcry, the transcripts from Donald Trump’s ongoing criminal trial will now be made available to the public through the website of the state Office of Court Administration. This historic decision ensures that every individual in the country and globally can follow the trial’s proceedings transparently and independently.
As the trial commenced yesterday under the leadership of Acting Manhattan state Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan, the prosecution presented their first witness, David Pecker, the former chief of the National Enquirer. Pecker’s testimony was cut short due to time constraints, and he is expected to continue today after a hearing on whether Trump violated the gag order.
The announcement of the transcripts’ release, made by Chief Administrative Judge Joe Zayas and First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George, was met with widespread praise from individuals across the political spectrum and legal professionals. This victory is not solely for one entity but a triumph for the public’s right to witness and scrutinize such proceedings.
Attorney Nick Akerman, former colleague Errol Louis, and organizations like Common Cause New York and New York Focus played a significant role in advocating for the release of transcripts. In addition, the chair of the state Senate Judiciary Committee, Brad Hoylman-Sigal, directly communicated with state Chief Judge Rowan Wilson to support the initiative.
Historically, New York and Louisiana have prohibited cameras and microphones in trials during witness testimony. With the limitations on courtroom seating, access to accurate and detailed transcripts became crucial. Despite the court stenographers being well-compensated, they also profited from selling the transcripts, which hindered public access.
Judges Zayas and St. George have committed to making the transcripts available by the end of each business day at 5 p.m. However, efforts are underway to expedite the release, potentially making them available on the same day. This increased transparency in the trial serves as a significant advancement for the public’s understanding and engagement with the legal system.
