– Testimony in Donald Trump’s NY trial delayed by gag-violation arguments
– Trump’s lawyer complains that Trump is not allowed to respond to Biden’s and Cohen’s attacks
– Prosecutors request additional fines for Trump for making four allegedly gag-violating statements during the trial
Donald Trump’s NY trial was delayed due to more gag-violation arguments, with his lawyer complaining that everyone can say anything they want except for President Trump. The trial saw bizarre interactions, including quotes from President Joe Biden mocking Trump and Michael Cohen’s insults towards Trump. Trump’s lawyers argued that he is being unfairly silenced while others attack him freely.
The judge found Trump in contempt of court for previous gag violations and fined him $9,000. Prosecutors sought to fine Trump an additional $4,000 for four more allegedly gag-violating statements he made on camera last week. Contempt of court carries a maximum punishment of 30 days in jail per violation, but prosecutors have not asked for jail time. However, they have warned that future violations could lead to imprisonment.
Prosecutors and the judge emphasized that Trump’s persistent and escalating gag violations are detrimental to the fair administration of justice. While the judge acknowledged that Trump may respond to certain statements made by others, such as President Biden or Cohen, he also expressed sympathy towards the defense’s argument that Trump is being unfairly silenced compared to the freedom others have to attack him. The defense argued that Cohen and Daniels, who continue to criticize Trump, are not defendants in the case and are not under the same gag order restrictions.