TRUMP FIGHTS Back: Lawyers Demand End to GAG Order in New York Case
— Donald Trump’s legal team is requesting the removal of a gag order that prevents him from commenting on witnesses, jurors, and others involved in his criminal case. His lawyers argue that the restrictions on Trump’s First Amendment rights are no longer justified now that the trial has concluded.
Trump’s attorneys, Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, emphasized the need for “unrestrained campaign advocacy,” especially after President Joe Biden’s public comments about the verdict. They also pointed out ongoing criticism from Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels as reasons to lift the gag order.
The Manhattan district attorney’s office declined to comment on this request. Judge Juan M. Merchan initially issued the gag order before the trial started due to concerns about Trump attacking those involved in his cases.
Merchan later expanded it to include comments about his own family after Trump targeted his daughter online. While remarks about Merchan and District Attorney Alvin Bragg are permitted, statements regarding court staff and Bragg’s prosecution team remain prohibited under the current gag order.