Jury Deliberations Begin in Historic Trial of Former President Donald Trump
Jury deliberations began Wednesday in New York prosecutors’ case against Donald Trump, marking the first criminal trial involving a former president in American history. The 12-person jury received instructions from Judge Juan Merchan on the laws they will need to consider as they decide the historic case. Deliberations could result in a verdict as soon as Wednesday afternoon, though it may take days or even stretch into next week.
During the closing argument that stretched late into Tuesday evening, prosecutor Joshua Steinglass emphasized to the jury their ability to hold the defendant accountable. The public eagerly awaits the verdict, although the deliberations are conducted behind closed doors.
Merchan instructed the jury to set aside personal feelings and reminded them that the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. He also emphasized that a decision of guilt must be unanimous. The jurors were given specific instructions relating to the evidence, testimony, and law in question, making their task more complex.
The charges against Trump involve 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels in the final days of the 2016 election. Prosecutors allege that Trump reimbursed his attorney, Michael Cohen, through falsified payments listed as legal expenditures.
Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche, maintains his client’s innocence, arguing that the records were not falsified as Trump was paying for general legal services. Cohen, the key witness for the prosecution, was criticized by Blanche for his history of lying.
If convicted, Trump faces up to four years in prison. The Secret Service has not made plans for potential detention if Trump is convicted. Trump has been vocal in criticizing the trial and the judge, taking to his Truth Social media platform to undermine the trial’s legitimacy.
Outside the courthouse, Trump supporters have been rallying daily, with their numbers expected to grow as a verdict nears. The trial began with jury selection on April 15, and Trump, who initially expressed willingness to testify, did not take the stand in his defense.
As the jury deliberates, the nation watches closely to see the outcome of this historic trial.
