Saying tensions are high is an understatement.
Amidst the ongoing Manhattan criminal trial involving former President Donald Trump, a notable incident unfolded on Thursday, prompting a stir in the courtroom. Matthew Russell Lee, reporting via X (formerly Twitter), detailed a moment during the trial when Trump’s attorney referenced text messages involving Dylan Howard, the former editor-in-chief of the National Inquirer, and an undisclosed individual.
According to Russell Lee’s account, New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan intervened, suggesting certain portions of the text messages could be redacted, addressing both the defense and the prosecution. Trump’s attorney, Emil Bove, initiated discussion about the text messages before being abruptly interrupted by the prosecution, eliciting a surprised reaction from both sides.
Katherine Fung, covering the trial for Newsweek, provided insight into the courtroom dynamics, highlighting the prosecution’s interjection with a sharp “woah” upon Bove’s mention of the text messages. Bove swiftly apologized, clarifying his intent.
The trial centers on allegations brought forth by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg regarding purported hush money payments to former adult film star Stormy Daniels, in which Trump stands accused. Bragg’s indictment last April accused Trump of manipulating New York business records to conceal damaging information during the 2016 presidential election, a charge vehemently denied by the former president.
Earlier testimony from David Pecker, former chairman of American Media Inc. (AMI), shed light on a “catch and kill” operation involving a story about Trump’s alleged relationship with former Playboy model Karen McDougal. Pecker affirmed AMI’s ownership of the story and detailed financial arrangements, emphasizing efforts to prevent potential embarrassment to Trump or his campaign.
Trump’s interactions outside the courtroom have also drawn attention, notably his characterization of Pecker as a “nice guy.” However, Prosecutor Christopher Conroy accused Trump of violating a gag order, citing remarks made about Michael Cohen and David Pecker during media interviews and a visit to a construction site.
Beyond the Manhattan trial, the U.S. Supreme Court is deliberating on Trump’s claims of presidential immunity in relation to federal indictments concerning alleged election interference, marking a broader legal battle intertwined with the former president’s legal woes.
