During a hearing on Tuesday, April 23rd, Judge Juan Merchan expressed skepticism when Todd Blanche, Donald Trump’s defense lawyer, suggested that Trump was making efforts to adhere to a court-ordered gag order. The judge reportedly told Blanche, “You’re losing all credibility,” as reported by MSNBC. Merchan’s dissatisfaction stemmed from Blanche’s inability to respond adequately to his inquiries during the hearing. The judge did not immediately decide whether Trump’s remarks against witnesses and jurors violated his order.
Following the hearing, the trial’s first witness, David Pecker, returned to the stand for direct examination by the prosecution. Pecker, former publisher of the National Enquirer, testified about his role in purchasing and suppressing stories to benefit Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign. Trump has been accused of violating a gag order multiple times, leading to the hearing where Blanche’s credibility was questioned. If found in violation, Trump could face penalties ranging from a warning to a fine or even a short jail term.
The diminishing credibility of Trump’s lawyer could have significant implications for the trial. Judges’ daily decisions on matters such as witnesses, evidence, and scheduling can greatly influence a case, particularly if the jury perceives a judge’s dissatisfaction with a lawyer, according to the report.
This trial, which began on Monday, centers on allegations that Trump committed a ‘conspiracy to undermine the integrity of a presidential election.’ The case is being closely watched as it could have major implications for Trump’s political future.
