The first of Donald Trump’s four criminal trials is set to begin on April 15 in New York City, as ruled by Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan. The trial relates to hush money paid during Trump’s 2016 campaign to cover up allegations of marital infidelity. Despite attempts by Trump’s lawyers to delay or dismiss the case, the trial is scheduled to proceed in three weeks.
Trump’s lawyers have accused the Manhattan District Attorney’s office of withholding evidence from a previous federal investigation in order to gain an advantage in the case. The judge rebuked these claims, stating that the prosecution had no obligation to collect evidence from the federal investigation. The trial has been postponed multiple times due to issues surrounding the disclosure of evidence.
Trump has criticized the handling of the case, calling it “election interference.” The former president faces charges of falsifying business records, with prosecutors alleging that he falsely recorded payments to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, as legal fees to cover up embarrassing stories. Cohen, who has pleaded guilty to campaign finance violations, is expected to testify against Trump.
The trial is significant as it is the only one of Trump’s pending prosecutions likely to go to trial in the near future. The case underscores New York’s role as a legal battleground for the former president. Despite Trump’s claims of innocence and accusations of a “witch hunt,” the trial is set to proceed with jury selection.
The outcome of the trial could impact Trump’s future legal challenges, including civil fraud judgments and allegations of election interference. The case is emblematic of the legal troubles facing Trump since leaving office, and the trial is expected to attract significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendant.