UPDATE: Trump’s defense advises Judge Merchan that during the lunch recess, Trump’s team claims it discovered social media posts for multiple jurors that the defense claims directly contradict their answers to the questionnaire and show “hostility” to Trump.
A juror (a woman) is brought into the courtroom to be questioned about a Facebook post saying “It’s a full-on celebration in NYC” and “get in the car and spread some honking cheer!” on Election Day 2020.
Upon questioning, she says she went to move her car and saw a celebration. It reminded her of the essential worker celebrations. She emphasizes that she strongly believes she can do the job of a juror.
As the juror turns to leave the courtroom, Donald Trump says something audibly in her direction. Judge Merchan tells the defense: “I will not have any juror intimidated in this courtroom. Take a moment to talk with your client.”
Per Judge Merchan, this female juror was about 12 feet away from Trump when he said something to her.
@KatiePhang Nope not again shirt available here 💙💙⚖️⚖️ anyimage.io/z6sx9f
Not to put too fine a point on it, but threatening a juror in a state case is also a federal offense. That aside, he will be taken into custody during this case. There's no doubt about it. Today was Day 2 of a 4-week trial. Without his phone to rile up truck drivers on Truth Social, he's melting down.
@KatiePhang If I were judge and I knew what Trump said to the juror directly, there would be no warning. That is totally beyond the pale.
@KatiePhang Did he violate the gag order again?
@KatiePhang Trump won't get through the trial. Can't handle jury selection