Introduction
The jury in Donald Trump’s New York hush money trial began deliberations on Wednesday. After more than four and a half hours, they adjourned without reaching a verdict. They will resume deliberations on Thursday at 9:30 a.m. ET.
Jury Requests and Instructions
- Testimony Readback Requests: The jury asked to hear specific parts of witness testimony again, including statements from:
- David Pecker: Former National Enquirer chief.
- Michael Cohen: Trump’s former fixer.
- Testimonies Requested:
- Pecker’s June 2016 phone conversation with Trump.
- Pecker’s account of not finalizing Trump’s payment to AMI for Karen McDougal’s story rights.
- Pecker’s description of the August 2015 Trump Tower meeting.
- Cohen’s details about the Trump Tower meeting.
- Judge Merchan’s Instructions: On Wednesday morning, Judge Juan Merchan explained the legal aspects of the 34 felony counts against Trump. These counts are related to falsifying business records over reimbursing Cohen for hush money payments to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election.
- Key Points from Judge:
- Jurors must decide if prosecutors have proven the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Jurors must set aside personal biases.
- Jurors must uphold their promise to be fair and impartial.
Deliberation Process
- Written Instructions: The jury was not given a written copy of the judge’s instructions. This differs from federal practice, where jurors typically receive the actual document.
- Evidence Access: Jurors have a laptop with all trial evidence, but it lacks internet access.
- Alternate Jurors: Six alternate jurors remain on standby in case they need to replace any of the 12 deliberating jurors.
Context and Implications
- Historic Decision: The jury will decide if Trump, a former president and current presidential candidate, is convicted of felony crimes for the first time in U.S. history.
- Political Implications: While the trial’s outcome could have significant political ramifications, the judge emphasized that the case should be decided solely on the evidence presented.
On-Site Preparedness
- Trump’s Legal Team: Trump and his attorneys are staying in the Manhattan courthouse to respond promptly to any further jury requests or questions.
Conclusion
The jury will continue deliberations on Thursday. Their decision will be closely watched as it holds potential historical significance and could impact Trump’s political future.
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