Manhattan Prosecutors Defend Gag Order in Trump's Hush Money Case

Manhattan prosecutors urged a judge to uphold a gag order in Donald Trump's criminal case, restricting him from criticizing jurors and court staff. While one provision was agreed to be lifted, prosecutors argue that remaining restrictions are vital due to Trump's history of inflammatory statements. Trump’s attorneys seek full revocation.

Manhattan prosecutors are urging the judge overseeing Donald Trump's criminal hush money case to maintain a gag order that restricts the former president from criticizing jurors, court staff, or prosecution members. This move underscores the ongoing legal battles and highlights the stakes as Trump campaigns for the White House.

Prosecutors agreed that the provision preventing Trump from attacking trial witnesses could be lifted. However, in court papers filed Friday, they emphasized that parts of the gag order remain necessary due to Trump's history of making inflammatory public statements and efforts by his supporters to identify jurors and threaten violence. Since the case verdict, Trump has continued to issue alarming rhetoric, even suggesting justified revenge if re-elected.

The gag order, issued in March, limits Trump's public statements about witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case, but allows comments on Judge Juan M. Merchan and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. Trump's defense lawyers are pushing to lift the order entirely post-trial, arguing for his right to address the case amidst his presidential campaign. Merchan's ruling on the matter is expected soon.

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