Former President Trump and his legal team are urging New York Judge Juan Merchan to lift the gag order that has been placed on him during the ongoing trial. Trump claims that the gag order is unconstitutional and is hindering his ability to freely express his views, feelings, and policies.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump asserted that as the presumptive 2024 Republican presidential nominee, he should have the right to respond to questions from the media regarding the trial. He criticized the restrictions placed on him, stating that his opponents have the freedom to question him while he is unable to provide answers.
Judge Merchan imposed the gag order on Trump before the trial began, preventing him from making statements about court staff and potential witnesses. Despite this restriction, Trump's legal team argues that the gag order infringes upon his First Amendment rights.
New York Attorney General Bragg has accused Trump of violating the gag order multiple times and is seeking fines and contempt of court charges against him. The judge is set to hold a hearing to address these alleged violations.
The request to lift the gag order comes amidst Trump's claims of a rigged election if he is not granted the ability to freely communicate his positions. The judge's ruling on this matter is eagerly anticipated as it could have significant implications for the ongoing trial and Trump's ability to engage with the media.
