Former President Donald Trump faced a significant day in court on April 15 and 16, 2024, as jury selection began for his criminal trial in Manhattan. The trial centers around allegations of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made during his presidency.
On the first day of proceedings, Trump appeared attentive during the process and interacted with some potential jurors while making faces when others mentioned reading his books. He has pleaded not guilty and denies any involvement in the encounter.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson announced a plan to put a foreign aid package on the floor after months of delay. The package includes separate votes on aid to Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and a forced sale of TikTok. The political implications of Trump's trial and his potential impact on U.S. foreign policy were discussed by Tamara Keith and Amy Walter.
The second day saw more potential jurors being dismissed as the historic trial continued in Manhattan criminal court. Trump observed the proceedings from the courtroom, where he faces 34 counts of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money payment to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels.
Despite Trump's legal team requesting more time to review juror strikes, questioning continued throughout the day. Prospective jurors were asked about their views on Trump and whether they had heard about the other charges against him. Some expressed frustration with the media coverage of the case and acknowledged that it would be difficult to remain impartial.
Trump's legal team, led by Todd Blanche, emphasized that they wanted to ensure a fair trial for their client. The jury selection process is expected to continue until at least next week when 12 jurors plus alternates will be chosen for the case.