The judge and defense attorneys involved in the so-called “hush-money” trial got into a heated debate on Tuesday over whether the former President Donald Trump violated a gag order with his social media posts, drawing a sharp reaction from the ex-president.
In the hearing, Judge Juan Merchan appeared to disagree with certain arguments made by President Trump’s attorneys after prosecutors with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office have claimed President Trump has so far violated the order that bars him from targeting court staff, witnesses, prosecutors, and the judge’s family, asking for $1,000 fines per each violation.
The judge did not issue a ruling Tuesday on whether he violated the order, as prosecutors have sought. Judge Merchan at one point suggested that instead of begging for forgiveness, President Trump should’ve asked the judge for clarity when considering posts or reposts that might cross the line….
