Top Stories for Today: Trump’s Criminal Trial, Supreme Court on Homeless Punishment, Columbia University Virtual Classes amid Gaza Protests

Today, Donald Trump will be back in court for the opening statements in his criminal trial, where prosecutors allege he worked with his attorney and executives to suppress stories from Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court will debate whether cities can punish homeless individuals for camping on public property. In addition, Columbia University is holding virtual classes amid protests in Gaza.

Opening statements are set to begin in the case of the People of the State of New York versus Donald Trump. Prosecutors claim Trump worked with his attorney and executives to suppress stories from Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal. Daniels alleges she had a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006, while McDougal says she had a 10-month relationship with him in 2007. Trump has denied these allegations. The trial will also focus on payments made to keep these stories quiet, with Trump facing 34 counts of falsifying business records.

In another legal matter, the Supreme Court will consider the constitutionality of city ordinances in Grants Pass, Oregon, that punish homeless individuals for camping on public property. Advocates argue that these ordinances punish people for existing without addressing the underlying issue of housing shortages. The outcome of this case could have implications for homeless individuals across the country.

Meanwhile, Columbia University has moved classes online amid tensions over pro-Palestinian protests on campus. Jewish leaders have raised concerns about safety, prompting the university president to denounce antisemitic language and behavior. The campus has been the site of a pro-Palestinian encampment and protest, highlighting the challenges of balancing free speech with ensuring a safe environment for all students.

These legal and social issues are shaping the news landscape today, with high-profile cases and debates taking center stage. Stay tuned for updates on these important developments.