Criminal Trial Begins for Hush Money Case Involving Mr. Trump

Former US President Donald Trump did not disrupt the largely technical proceedings in his criminal trial, unlike in other cases. His legal team engaged in disputes with the prosecution over the admissibility of evidence, while Trump, the first former US president to face a criminal trial, listened intently and remained mostly silent. The trial, which could have significant implications for Trump and the country, is taking place in courtroom 1530 inside an Art Deco courthouse in New York City. Trump accused the magistrate of being “corrupt” on his social media platform after the judge declined calls from the defense to recuse himself.

The case, expected to last up to two months, revolves around payments made to former adult film star Stormy Daniels as Trump neared his 2016 election victory. Trump regularly consulted with his lawyers during the trial and reacted visibly to certain comments made by the prosecution. However, he did not respond when a controversial tape of him making inappropriate remarks about women was played by the prosecutors. Trump expressed his perspective on the trial, describing it as an “assault on America” and “political persecution.”

Notably, Trump’s presence at the defendant’s table was captured by photographers, highlighting the unprecedented nature of a former president being on trial.