Trump Appeals Gag Order in New York “Hush Money” Trial

Former President Donald Trump is seeking intervention from New York’s highest court regarding a gag order imposed on him during his hush money criminal trial. Trump’s legal team filed a notice of appeal after a mid-level appellate court denied his request to lift or modify the restrictions. The gag order prohibits Trump from commenting on witnesses, jurors, and others involved in the case.

Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, stated that the appeal aims to challenge what they perceive as an unconstitutional and un-American restriction on Trump’s First Amendment rights. The former president has been fined $10,000 and faces the threat of jail time for repeatedly violating the gag order.

The primary concern raised by Trump’s lawyers is that the gag order impedes his ability to engage in political speech, particularly during his campaign for the 2024 presidential election.

They argue that the restrictions on commenting about individuals connected to the case, such as prosecutor Matthew Colangelo and Judge Juan Merchan’s daughter, limit Trump’s right to free speech.

The Appellate Division of the state’s trial court upheld the gag order, citing the need to ensure the fair administration of justice and protect individuals associated with the case from harassment or harm. Trump’s repeated violations of the order, including comments about the jury’s political affiliations, have led to fines and warnings of potential jail time.

Despite Trump’s efforts to challenge the gag order, the appellate court ruled that the restrictions were justified in balancing his free speech rights with the integrity of the criminal proceedings. The appeal seeks to overturn this decision and allow Trump to freely comment on matters related to the trial.

As the legal battle over the gag order continues, the outcome will have significant implications for Trump’s ability to publicly address the ongoing criminal proceedings while navigating his political aspirations.