Elena Martinez
The judge overseeing Donald Trump’s upcoming criminal trial in New York has broadened a previous gag order in response to the former president’s recent online attacks against his daughter.
Judge Juan Merchan has now extended the restrictions to include Trump’s family members, as well as those of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, in addition to the individuals previously covered by the order.
Merchan stated that Trump’s attacks on family members of those involved in the case serve no legitimate purpose and only instill fear in those participating in the proceedings. He emphasized the real threat posed by such actions to the integrity of the judicial process, particularly with the trial fast approaching.
“The average observer, upon hearing Defendant’s recent attacks, may conclude that involvement in these proceedings could put not only themselves but also their loved ones at risk,” Merchan wrote.
He expressed concerns that such intimidation could hinder the fair administration of justice and undermine the Rule of Law.
Trump’s lawyers argued that his attacks were protected political speech, while prosecutors urged the judge to address Trump’s escalating rhetoric. Bragg’s office asserted that Trump’s actions undermine the integrity of the proceedings and aim to intimidate witnesses and participants.
In his ruling, Merchan dismissed Trump’s arguments as unfounded and exaggerated, warning of potential sanctions for any violation of the gag order.
He also noted Trump’s complaint about pretrial publicity, arguing for an indefinite adjournment of the trial until the media coverage subsides.
Trump has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which allege falsification of business records related to a hush money payment made by his former attorney Michael Cohen to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. Daniels claims to have had a sexual encounter with Trump, an allegation he denies.
