The next potential juror jumps to Q29A, and discloses that a family member is a lifelong friend of former NJ Gov. Chris Christie. When asked if that would be a problem: "I don't believe so." Merchan: "Is that a figure of speech or—" Her: "Sorry, a figure of speech. I'm nervous."
Later, on the podcast question, she says, “I used to listen to The Daily, but it’s too depressing, so I stopped.” Note to self: More "happy" content on the @lawfare podcast.
The next juror says he knows a court officer. He clarifies, "A court officer...in this room." Another day in small town Manhattan. Later he says, "I try to find a wife in my spare time, but it's not working."
More context from the pool on the papers Trump is hunched over studying so intently: "Trump is flipping through papers right now that contain either charts, photos or graphics, definitely not text."
The next juror starts by jumping to Q14-19, saying she's disqualified because she served time. Tearing up she says, "I wrote down all my crimes, it was over 10 years ago, and you guys keep calling me back for jury, and I'm pretty sure I'm not supposed to be here."
Merchan seems genuinely concerned as he asks if she'd like to approach the bench to discuss this more privately. She was summoned for jury duty as recently as January, and had to go through this then. It sounds like a very painful experience that she now keeps having to recount.
It's not disqualifying. She apologizes for crying and proceeds with the rest of the questionnaire.
At 11:24 a.m., we take a "very short" 10-minute recess.
After the jurors left, Merchan said just before recess, referencing the emotional exchange: “We all just heard from a very brave woman. So I just want to encourage the press to please be kind. Please be kind to this person.”
@TylerMcBrien So, they prob have her disclose every time and then kick her off because she committed a crime. Kind of like how they throw people off if they've been victims of crimes or have family who are cops.
@SarahBurris @TylerMcBrien They don't have any more peremptory strikes left and frankly that cause is now NOT going to fly with this judge. She only going to be an alternate, so I don't think Merchan will agree to kicking her off. I honestly think this could be the making of her if she stays!