Former President Donald Trump has expressed his frustration and anger towards the judge overseeing his falsifying business records case. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump criticized New York Judge Juan Merchan, whom he accused of being “totally conflicted.” The judge had previously made a small donation to President Joe Biden’s 2020 campaign, raising concerns about impartiality.
The historic criminal trial is set to begin on Monday with jury selection. Trump, who has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, will be defending himself. The charges relate to the alleged arrangement of “hush money” for his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, to pay adult film star Stormy Daniels in order to keep their alleged affair a secret during the 2016 election.
Prosecutors argue that the money, which was recorded as “legal fees” in Trump’s company records, was part of an illegal attempt to influence the outcome of the presidential race. Trump vehemently denies any involvement in an affair with Daniels.
Implications for the 2024 Election
This trial marks the first time in U.S. history that a former president has faced criminal charges in court. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for both Trump and President Biden, potentially influencing the 2024 election. Polls consistently show that voters may be less inclined to support the Republican candidate if he is found guilty of a crime before the upcoming election in November.
Trump’s Allegations of Election Interference
In his social media post, Trump not only criticized Judge Merchan but also targeted Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, whose office brought the charges against him. Trump claimed that the trial was an act of “election interference” designed to prevent his return to the White House.
It is important to note that Trump’s allegations of election interference are unsubstantiated. The trial is a legal process aimed at determining the truth behind the charges brought against him. The court proceedings will provide an opportunity for both sides to present their arguments and evidence.
“Tomorrow morning I’ll be in Criminal Court, before a totally conflicted Judge, a Corrupt Prosecutor, a Legal System in CHAOS, a State being overrun by violent crime and corruption, and Crooked Joe Biden’s henchmen ‘Rigging the System’ against his Political Opponent, ME! Trump wrote.
