NEW: Despite some ponderous moments, we have our first 6 jurors—and it’s only Tuesday afternoon. But we’ll need 18 total (12 jurors and 6 alternates). 1/
For now, Judge Merchan intends to bring back the original six on Monday, meaning he anticipates we could have all 18 by then.
In the meantime, it’s worth noting that Todd Blanche succeeded with challenges to two jurors for cause, both based on social media posts his team discovered. (Remember: The defense has the names of prospective jurors, a right conferred on them by law, but the public does not.) 3/
One of the prospective jurors they succcessfully challenged made a Facebook post about some of the conduct at issue in this case, as it was unfolding, and wrote, “Get him out and lock him up.” 4/
The other, who insisted his personal views were irrelevant and that he could “compartmentalize,” was struck for cause after the defense revealed he posted an AI-created video that mocks Trump’s smarts and touted Trump’s indictment in the Mar a Lago documents case, to which he added, “No one is above the law.” 5/
@lawofruby Most jurors actually said that "no one is above the law". It's a weak excuse to dismiss.
@lawofruby I would most definitely be disqualified by my posts, thousands of them! This one is my favorite though....
@lawofruby They are following protocol, and jury selection should move swiftly!
"Compartmentalize," he says, but in an era where our online musings are etched in silicon rather than stone, such compartments are transparent, viewable, and, indeed, judged by all. It’s a cautionary tale: in the courtroom of public opinion and the actual courtroom, the walls are made of glass, and "No one is above the law" applies not just to the defendants but to the words we cast into the vast sea of the internet.
@lawofruby Donny must be loving hearing them read out these tweets — perhaps he’s finally realizing what most of us actually think about him. #SAD
@lawofruby I wonder if it’s weird for Trump to come into contact with ppl who are not his fans.
@lawofruby I’m practicing almost 49 years now. I don’t see how it is possible that 6 jurors have selected.