NEW DELHI:
Former President
Donald
Trump
made his appearance at a New York court on Monday for the start of
jury selection
for the start of jury selection in his hush money trial—a moment of significant historical import for the US.
This marks the first instance of a former president facing a criminal trial, setting the stage for a
legal battle
among the four indictments leveled against Trump.
Given his current status as the presumptive Republican nominee, the trial presents a surreal scenario of a presidential candidate navigating between legal proceedings and campaigning, as he remarked, “campaigning during the night.”
Amid the high security outside the court, the protesters, gathered in the plaza across the street, carried hand-painted signs reading “LOSER” and “convict Trump already.”
Before the jury selection process unfolds, there may be preliminary legal matters to address. Once underway, numerous individuals will be called into the courtroom as part of the effort to select 12 jurors and six alternates.
Judge Juan M. Merchan, in his filing dated April 8th, emphasized the paramount importance of ensuring prospective jurors can set aside personal biases and render decisions based solely on evidence and the law.
For Trump, this trial represents a historic moment, a courtroom reckoning following a presidency marked by norm-breaking events and investigations. Facing charges ranging from hoarding classified documents to plotting to overturn an election, Trump’s legal battles take center stage, though the political ramifications remain uncertain. Despite the gravity of the charges, a conviction would not bar him from seeking the presidency, and the allegations in this case are viewed as less severe compared to others he faces.
Regardless of the trial’s outcome, Trump seeks to leverage the proceedings to portray himself as a victim of politically motivated prosecutions aimed at derailing his candidacy. His persistent attacks on judges and prosecutors underscore his narrative of persecution.
The trial, with its potential implications, unfolds against the backdrop of legal maneuvers. An emergency request to delay the trial was rejected by an appeals judge, while Manhattan prosecutors contend that fair and impartial jurors can be found despite the publicity surrounding the case.
The process of jury selection will commence with individuals filing into Merchan’s courtroom, identified only by numbers to maintain confidentiality. Prospective jurors will be screened for bias and their ability to serve impartially, with specific questions tailored to the unique circumstances of the case.
Though the case is regarded by some legal experts as the least consequential of the four criminal prosecutions he faces, it is the only one guaranteed to go to trial before the Nov. 5 election.
Trump has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he could still hold office but Reuters/Ipsos polling shows a guilty verdict could hobble his prospects.
(With inputs from agency)