In the ongoing hush-money criminal trial involving former President Donald Trump, the initial phase of jury selection has begun.
Seven jurors have been chosen, marking a pivotal step in assembling a panel capable of impartial judgment. The trial revolves around allegations that Trump falsified business records to conceal a payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election, stemming from her claim of a past sexual encounter with him.
Trump, who vehemently denies any wrongdoing, faces 34 felony charges in this case brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
He has labeled the prosecution as a politically motivated “witch hunt” aimed at undermining his campaign efforts against then-Democratic President Joe Biden.
Among the jurors selected, diverse backgrounds were represented, including an outdoors enthusiast originally from Ireland, an oncology nurse, and a corporate lawyer.
The process has revealed the challenges of finding impartial jurors in the heavily Democratic Manhattan, with more than half of the initial 96-person pool dismissed due to concerns over fairness.
During questioning, Trump’s lawyer emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair trial for the former president.
However, concerns were raised when Trump audibly muttered during questioning, prompting a warning from the judge against intimidating jurors.
The trial’s proceedings have also seen Trump’s legal team clashing with prosecutors over his public statements.
Prosecutors have sought fines for Trump’s social media posts criticizing witnesses, including Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen, his former fixer expected to testify.
