Former President Donald Trump’s comments about his hush money trial jury have drawn scrutiny. A former judge believes they may have violated his gag order. Trump, in an interview, mentioned the jury’s political leanings. This statement alone may not breach the gag order, but raises concerns.
Trump faces a criminal contempt hearing Tuesday, but the specific comment is unlikely to be addressed as it falls outside the current scope of the gag order. The former judge suggests Trump could face challenges for his message to his supporters and the potential perception of bias against the jury.
Retired Superior Court Judge LaDoris Hazzard Cordell expressed concerns about Trump’s comments, suggesting they could send a negative message to his supporters. She believes Trump is attempting to influence public opinion and create a perception of unfairness.
Despite Trump’s allegations of a biased jury, a New York Times reporter covering the trial has observed minimal support for Trump outside the courtroom. In contrast, protests at Columbia University have drawn significant attention. Trump attempted to link the lack of support at his trial to the enhanced security at Columbia, but the reporter dismissed this suggestion.
Trump’s attorney, Chris Kise, has claimed Trump wants transparency in the Mar-a-Lago case involving classified documents. However, special counsel Jack Smith has sought to keep certain materials confidential. Kise criticized Smith’s approach, arguing that the public deserves full knowledge of the case. Commenters on social media questioned Kise’s logic, highlighting the sensitive nature of classified information.
Stephanie Grisham, Melania Trump’s former aide, expressed amusement at Melania’s decision to sell expensive necklaces during the first week of Trump’s hush money trial. Grisham suggested the timing was inappropriate and questioned the purpose of the fundraising, given that it does not appear to support any charitable initiatives or legal defense funds.
