State Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, on Monday (Apr 8) approved a questionnaire for jury selection. She also approved instructions for prospective jurors as the trial is set to begin next week.

The questionnaire contains 42 numbered questions on a range of topics. Interestingly, it doesn’t carry questions asking about party affiliation, political contributions or voting history.

<h2>The question of political affiliation</h2>

Trump’s attorneys had earlier argued that asking out these questions was necessary as to whether the prospective jurors liked Trump or not was significant for the case. The judge dismissed the plea, saying that “contrary to defense counsel’s arguments, the purpose of jury selection is not to determine whether a prospective juror likes or does not like one of the parties.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjNtIT7nrWFAxVTUfUHHWhRCHsQvOMEKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-loses-bid-to-delay-hush-money-trial-in-major-courtroom-setback-709192" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-loses-bid-to-delay-hush-money-trial-in-major-courtroom-setback-709192&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNtIT7nrWFAxVTUfUHHWhRCHsQvOMEKAB6BAgPEAE">Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback</a>

"Such questions are irrelevant because they do not go to the issue of the prospective juror’s qualifications," Merchan wrote. "The ultimate issue is whether the prospective juror can ensure us that they will set aside any personal feelings or biases and render a decision that is based on the evidence and the law," he added.

Although he said the hints about the political affiliations can be derived from the answers to other questions already included in the questionnaire.

Watch:&nbsp;WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes

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The question about the political affiliation of the jurors has also been raised in Trump's classified documents case in Florida.

<h2>Anonymity of the prospective jurors</h2>

In the hush money trial, Judge Merchan also said that steps would be taken to ensure the anonymity of the prospective jurors. They will be informed before they enter the courtroom that they will be identified by the numbers printed on their jury summonses “as a necessary measure to ensure anonymity.”

Last month, he ruled that the names of the jurors would be shielded from media, citing the “likelihood of bribery, jury tampering, or of physical injury or harassment of juror(s).”

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The questionnaire came as a state appeal court dismissed Trump’s efforts to delay the trial, now set to begin on April 15.

(With inputs from agencies)

State Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, on Monday (Apr 8) approved a questionnaire for jury selection. She also approved instructions for prospective jurors as the trial is set to begin next week.

State Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing former US president Donald Trump’s hush money trial, on Monday (Apr 8) approved a questionnaire for jury selection. She also approved instructions for prospective jurors as the trial is set to begin next week. The questionnaire contains 42 numbered questions on a range of topics. Interestingly, it doesn’t carry questions asking about party affiliation, political contributions or voting history. The question of political affiliation Trump’s attorneys had earlier argued that asking out these questions was necessary as to whether the prospective jurors liked Trump or not was significant for the case. The judge dismissed the plea, saying that “contrary to defense counsel’s arguments, the purpose of jury selection is not to determine whether a prospective juror likes or does not like one of the parties.” Also read: Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback "Such questions are irrelevant because they do not go to the issue of the prospective juror’s qualifications," Merchan wrote. "The ultimate issue is whether the prospective juror can ensure us that they will set aside any personal feelings or biases and render a decision that is based on the evidence and the law," he added. Although he said the hints about the political affiliations can be derived from the answers to other questions already included in the questionnaire. Watch: WION Rewind 2023: This year saw Trump rising from the ashes × The question about the political affiliation of the jurors has also been raised in Trump's classified documents case in Florida. Anonymity of the prospective jurors In the hush money trial, Judge Merchan also said that steps would be taken to ensure the anonymity of the prospective jurors. They will be informed before they enter the courtroom that they will be identified by the numbers printed on their jury summonses “as a necessary measure to ensure anonymity.” Last month, he ruled that the names of the jurors would be shielded from media, citing the “likelihood of bribery, jury tampering, or of physical injury or harassment of juror(s).” Also read: Will Trump ask Ukraine to give up some land to end war? His campaign denies any such plans The questionnaire came as a state appeal court dismissed Trump’s efforts to delay the trial, now set to begin on April 15. (With inputs from agencies)

Political affiliation not included in jury questionnaire for Trump’s hush money trial

Former US president Donald Trump announced Saturday (Apr 6) it would be his “great honour” to go to jail for violating a gag order in the hush money trial. He also likened himself to Nelson Mandela, the former president of South Africa who spent 27 years behind bars for anti-apartheid activism. “I will gladly become a Modern Day Nelson Mandela — It will be my GREAT HONOR,” Trump wrote in a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform.

The post attacked New York State Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchan, who is presiding over the hush money case.

<h2>The gag order</h2>

Judge Juan Merchan has prohibited Trump from speaking about the case’s witnesses, jurors and lawyers in public. Additionally, the gag order restricts him from publicly speaking about court staff, employees in the Manhattan District Attorney’s office and their family members.

The gag order came after Trump urged Merchan to recuse himself from the case. Trump claims Merchan to be compromised as his daughter serves at a progressive consulting firm that has worked for Democrats.

When Trump went after Merchan’s daughter, he expanded the scope of the gag order to prohibit direct attacks on his own family members and those of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump on the verge of a multi-billion dollar windfall

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Trump claimed Merchan was “violating the law and the Constitution” by not allowing him to criticise court staff of their families.

<h2>Previous cases</h2>

Trump has in the past&nbsp;flouted such gag orders in a flurry of cases under trial against him. In October last year, he was threatened with jail time by Judge Arthur Engoron in a civil case and was ultimately issued a fine worth $10,000.

Trump lashed at Engoron for ordering him to pay over $460 million following a civil fraud trial, calling him a “total lunatic, whack job.”

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Trump also lambasted Judge Lewis Kaplan, who oversaw E. Jean Carroll’s successful defamation case, deriding him as a “crazed bully.”

<h2>‘Mandela, Jesus Christ’</h2>

It’s not the first time that Trump has likened himself to a great martyr. He did the same in October while issuing a rant against various lawsuits he faces.

Last week, the former president compared his legal challenges to the persecution of Jesus Christ.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump announced Saturday (Apr 6) it would be his “great honour” to go to jail for violating a gag order in the hush money trial. He also likened himself to Nelson Mandela, the former president of South Africa who spent 27 years behind bars for anti-apartheid activism.

Former US president Donald Trump announced Saturday (Apr 6) it would be his “great honour” to go to jail for violating a gag order in the hush money trial. He also likened himself to Nelson Mandela, the former president of South Africa who spent 27 years behind bars for anti-apartheid activism. “I will gladly become a Modern Day Nelson Mandela — It will be my GREAT HONOR,” Trump wrote in a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform. The post attacked New York State Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchan, who is presiding over the hush money case. The gag order Judge Juan Merchan has prohibited Trump from speaking about the case’s witnesses, jurors and lawyers in public. Additionally, the gag order restricts him from publicly speaking about court staff, employees in the Manhattan District Attorney’s office and their family members. The gag order came after Trump urged Merchan to recuse himself from the case. Trump claims Merchan to be compromised as his daughter serves at a progressive consulting firm that has worked for Democrats. When Trump went after Merchan’s daughter, he expanded the scope of the gag order to prohibit direct attacks on his own family members and those of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. Watch: Donald Trump on the verge of a multi-billion dollar windfall × Trump claimed Merchan was “violating the law and the Constitution” by not allowing him to criticise court staff of their families. Previous cases Trump has in the past flouted such gag orders in a flurry of cases under trial against him. In October last year, he was threatened with jail time by Judge Arthur Engoron in a civil case and was ultimately issued a fine worth $10,000. Trump lashed at Engoron for ordering him to pay over $460 million following a civil fraud trial, calling him a “total lunatic, whack job.” Also read: Trump`s Florida fundraiser collects over $50mn; outshines tri-presidential event for Biden campaign Trump also lambasted Judge Lewis Kaplan, who oversaw E. Jean Carroll’s successful defamation case, deriding him as a “crazed bully.” ‘Mandela, Jesus Christ’ It’s not the first time that Trump has likened himself to a great martyr. He did the same in October while issuing a rant against various lawsuits he faces. Last week, the former president compared his legal challenges to the persecution of Jesus Christ. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Will gladly become modern day Mandela,’ says Trump as he violates gag order in hush money trial

On Tuesday (Mar 26), the New York judge overseeing Donald Trump's trial regarding purported hush money payments to a porn star imposed a partial gag order on the former president. Judge Juan Merchan instructed Trump to refrain from publicly criticising potential witnesses, prosecutors, court personnel, their relatives, or potential jurors.

This action was taken shortly after Trump launched a barrage of criticism at the judge and his daughter through posts on Truth Social.

Trump described Merchan as a "true and certified Trump hater who suffers from a very serious case of Trump Derangement Syndrome."

"In other words, he hates me," Trump said. "Judge Merchan should recuse himself, he cannot give me a fair trial."

The ex-Republican president also mentioned that Merchan's daughter holds a senior position at a highly liberal Democratic firm.

Merchan is the third judge managing a case involving Trump to implement a partial gag order. Judge Arthur Engoron, who managed a business fraud case in New York that led to a $454 million penalty for Trump, also enforced a partial gag order. Similarly, District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, overseeing the federal case against Trump concerning charges of attempting to overturn the 2020 election results, issued a similar order.

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<h2>'Threatening, inflammatory'&nbsp;</h2>

In his ruling, Judge Merchan pointed out Trump's track record of issuing public statements characterised as "threatening, inflammatory, denigrating."

The judge said that Trump's previous extrajudicial remarks posed a tangible risk to the fair administration of justice, leaving no recourse but to impose a gag order. This decision followed Merchan's setting of April 15 as the commencement date for the unprecedented criminal trial of a former president.

Also watch |&nbsp;Trump &amp; Biden's new challenger: 'Literally anybody else'

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Trump is accused of falsifying business records in connection with payments made by his lawyer, Michael Cohen, to Stormy Daniels prior to the 2016 election. Additionally, Trump faces numerous charges related to alleged election interference and the unauthorised retention of classified White House documents.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Tuesday (Mar 26), the New York judge overseeing Donald Trump's trial regarding purported hush money payments to a porn star imposed a partial gag order on the former president.

On Tuesday (Mar 26), the New York judge overseeing Donald Trump's trial regarding purported hush money payments to a porn star imposed a partial gag order on the former president. Judge Juan Merchan instructed Trump to refrain from publicly criticising potential witnesses, prosecutors, court personnel, their relatives, or potential jurors. This action was taken shortly after Trump launched a barrage of criticism at the judge and his daughter through posts on Truth Social. Trump described Merchan as a "true and certified Trump hater who suffers from a very serious case of Trump Derangement Syndrome." "In other words, he hates me," Trump said. "Judge Merchan should recuse himself, he cannot give me a fair trial." The ex-Republican president also mentioned that Merchan's daughter holds a senior position at a highly liberal Democratic firm. Merchan is the third judge managing a case involving Trump to implement a partial gag order. Judge Arthur Engoron, who managed a business fraud case in New York that led to a $454 million penalty for Trump, also enforced a partial gag order. Similarly, District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, overseeing the federal case against Trump concerning charges of attempting to overturn the 2020 election results, issued a similar order. Also read | Major billionaire Republican donors rallied to aid Trump in paying $454 million bond 'Threatening, inflammatory' In his ruling, Judge Merchan pointed out Trump's track record of issuing public statements characterised as "threatening, inflammatory, denigrating." The judge said that Trump's previous extrajudicial remarks posed a tangible risk to the fair administration of justice, leaving no recourse but to impose a gag order. This decision followed Merchan's setting of April 15 as the commencement date for the unprecedented criminal trial of a former president. Also watch | Trump & Biden's new challenger: 'Literally anybody else' Trump is accused of falsifying business records in connection with payments made by his lawyer, Michael Cohen, to Stormy Daniels prior to the 2016 election. Additionally, Trump faces numerous charges related to alleged election interference and the unauthorised retention of classified White House documents. (With inputs from agencies)

US judge issues gag order against Trump in New York hush money case

In a bid to maintain trial integrity, Manhattan prosecutors have urged Judge Juan Merchan to impose a gag order on Donald Trump, preventing him from disparaging witnesses and disclosing juror identities in his criminal case for falsifying business records.

Prosecutors from the Manhattan district attorney's office, led by Alvin Bragg, have advocated for limitations akin to those imposed during Trump's federal trial in Washington. They cited Trump's history of inflammatory remarks, expressing concern over potential disruptions to the judicial process.

<h2>Parameters of proposed gag order</h2>

The proposed gag order mirrors restrictions upheld by the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, aiming to curtail Trump's public criticism. Prosecutors aim to prevent attacks on witnesses, court and district attorney staff, and prospective jurors, citing the need for an orderly legal proceeding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-appeals-355-million-civil-fraud-judgement-as-penalty-amount-rises-694167">Also read&nbsp; | Trump appeals $355 million civil fraud judgement as penalty amount rises</a>

Prosecutors highlight Trump's past statements on his Truth Social platform, including erroneous predictions of arrest in the business records case. They underscore the immediate threats received by the district attorney's office following Trump's posts, indicating a direct correlation between his remarks and hostile actions.

Trump's legal team is anticipated to contest the gag order, potentially appealing any decision in favour of prosecutors. However, several judges have previously restricted Trump's contentious remarks in both federal and state courts.

Also watch |&nbsp;US: Ronna McDaniel to resign as Republican National Committee chair

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Trump's trial is scheduled for March 25, with charges stemming from 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election.

Prosecutors assert that these payments were intended to influence the election outcome, emphasising Trump's manipulation of business records to cover up the transactions.

To bolster their case, prosecutors seek to introduce ancillary evidence related to Trump's alleged interference in the 2016 election, including additional hush-money payments and the infamous Access Hollywood tape. However, Trump's legal team challenges the relevance of this evidence and seeks to exclude testimony from Michael Cohen, citing past misstatements.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to maintain trial integrity, Manhattan prosecutors have urged Judge Juan Merchan to impose a gag order on Donald Trump, preventing him from disparaging witnesses and disclosing juror identities in his criminal case for falsifying business records.

In a bid to maintain trial integrity, Manhattan prosecutors have urged Judge Juan Merchan to impose a gag order on Donald Trump, preventing him from disparaging witnesses and disclosing juror identities in his criminal case for falsifying business records. Prosecutors from the Manhattan district attorney's office, led by Alvin Bragg, have advocated for limitations akin to those imposed during Trump's federal trial in Washington. They cited Trump's history of inflammatory remarks, expressing concern over potential disruptions to the judicial process. Parameters of proposed gag order The proposed gag order mirrors restrictions upheld by the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, aiming to curtail Trump's public criticism. Prosecutors aim to prevent attacks on witnesses, court and district attorney staff, and prospective jurors, citing the need for an orderly legal proceeding. Also read | Trump appeals $355 million civil fraud judgement as penalty amount rises Prosecutors highlight Trump's past statements on his Truth Social platform, including erroneous predictions of arrest in the business records case. They underscore the immediate threats received by the district attorney's office following Trump's posts, indicating a direct correlation between his remarks and hostile actions. Trump's legal team is anticipated to contest the gag order, potentially appealing any decision in favour of prosecutors. However, several judges have previously restricted Trump's contentious remarks in both federal and state courts. Also watch | US: Ronna McDaniel to resign as Republican National Committee chair Trump's trial is scheduled for March 25, with charges stemming from 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Prosecutors assert that these payments were intended to influence the election outcome, emphasising Trump's manipulation of business records to cover up the transactions. To bolster their case, prosecutors seek to introduce ancillary evidence related to Trump's alleged interference in the 2016 election, including additional hush-money payments and the infamous Access Hollywood tape. However, Trump's legal team challenges the relevance of this evidence and seeks to exclude testimony from Michael Cohen, citing past misstatements. (With inputs from agencies)

Manhattan prosecutors request gag order for Trump ahead of hush-money trial

In a few hours from now, former US President Donald Trump is scheduled to appear at Miami's Federal Court. He is facing the charges of allegedly unlawfully keeping National Security documents after leaving office and then allegedly lying to the officials who tried to retrieve them. Local authorities and security outside the court are tight in anticipation of protestors and supporters.

US: Ex-President Donald Trump scrambles to find new lawyers for secret documents case

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has opposed former president Donald Trump's request to transfer the Stormy Daniels "hush money" case to a federal court. Bragg's office said Trump did have the right to persuade a change in venue as he is not a federal officer.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has opposed former president Donald Trump's request to transfer the Stormy Daniels "hush money" case to a federal court. Bragg's office said Trump did have the right to persuade a change in venue as he is not a federal officer. Trump's lawyers had moved the court saying the case "involved important federal questions" and that some of the conduct occurred when he was in office. However, Bragg said Trump could not invoke the statute reserved for federal government officials seeking to move a particular case to federal court as he was not a federal officer when the hush money payment was made in 2016. "Defendant was charged by a New York county grand jury with New York crimes for falsifying the business records of private New York enterprises while reimbursing his personal lawyer for a pre-election expenditure," Bragg said in the filing. "He does not plausibly meet the required elements to justify removal to federal court." WATCH | Stormy Daniels says Donald Trump shouldn't go to jail in Hush money case × Trump pleads not guilty Trump has previously attacked the DA saying the case did not have any legs and that he was being dragged through the mud. "The district attorney of New York under the auspices and direction of the ‘department of injustice’ in Washington, DC, is investigating me for something that is not a crime, not a misdemeanour, not an affair,” said Trump. ALSO READ | Trump shushes reporter, throws his phone and kicks him out of plane: Report The Republican leader last month pleaded not guilty and maintained that he did not have an affair with Daniels. Trump is accused of having sex with Daniels right after Melania gave birth to their son Barron. He is alleged to have falsified records to conceal reimbursements to his then-lawyer Michael Cohen for a $130,000 payment to Daniels to silence her about their alleged sexual encounters. At the time the alleged affair happened, Daniels was an established adult-entertainment actress and a director. She even had several awards to her name. The criminal trial for Trump is scheduled for March 25, 2024, when he will be in the middle of his presidential campaign. Trump has announced his candidature to secure the presidential nomination with the likes of Ron DeSantis and Tulsi Gabbard gunning for the same position. However, despite being embroiled in a criminal case, Trump is leading the pack and is expected to sweep the primaries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trump's attempt to move 'hush money' case to federal court opposed by Manhattan DA

The judge, who presided over Donald Trump's arraignment, and his family have received multiple threats in form of calls, emails and letters following the former president's historic arrest in New York, as per media reports.

On Tuesday, Trump pleaded not guilty in the Manhattan court to the 34 felony counts against him related to the hush money payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels.

NBC as well as other media houses reported that Judge Juan Merchan along with his family has been receiving “dozens” of threats.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/never-though-this-could-happen-in-america-donald-trumps-first-remarks-following-arraignment-579220">Never thought this could happen in America: Donald Trump's first remarks following arraignment</a>

The report stated that the threats, similar to the ones directed towards Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg and other officials, were received in the form of emails, letters and calls.

New York police enhanced security around Merchan and the court and started providing “extra security to all affected staff members”, stated NBC. The biographies of employees working at Bragg’s office have been pulled out from the website of the district attorney.

The New York Daily News, in its report, also claimed that Merchan and his family received threats and quoted a source telling them that “the content of the calls, emails and letters was … harassing and defamatory, with most of the trolls calling from out of state”.

New York office of court administration's spokesperson Lucian Chalfen told the paper, “We continue to evaluate and re-evaluate security concerns and potential threats. We have maintained an increased security presence in and around courthouses and throughout the judiciary and will adjust protocols as necessary.”

Meanwhile, retired conservative judge and former vice-president Mike Pence's adviser, who received national prominence after he gave testimony to the House January 6 committee, J Michael Luttig warned that Trump may receive a gag order over the attacks made by him on Judge Merchan.

WATCH | Donald Trump to surrender for arraignment on criminal charges in Manhattan

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“There is no court that would want to impose a gag order on a president of the United States. But if the former president forces the Manhattan criminal court, the court will have no choice,” Luttig said.

Manhattan district attorney's former rackets bureau chief Mike Scotto said, “A gag order is used to protect the defendant’s rights to a fair trial and also the government’s rights to a fair trial, so that the potential jurors don’t learn anything about the case that they’re not going to learn in court.”

During the court proceedings, Merchan had warned Trump to “refrain from making statements that are likely to incite violence and civil unrest”. He had also said to Trump's lawyer, “I don’t share your view that certain language is justified by frustration.”

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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The judge, who presided over Donald Trump's arraignment, and his family have received multiple threats in form of calls, emails and letters following the former president's historic arrest in New York, as per media reports.

The judge, who presided over Donald Trump's arraignment, and his family have received multiple threats in form of calls, emails and letters following the former president's historic arrest in New York, as per media reports. On Tuesday, Trump pleaded not guilty in the Manhattan court to the 34 felony counts against him related to the hush money payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels. NBC as well as other media houses reported that Judge Juan Merchan along with his family has been receiving “dozens” of threats. ALSO READ | Never thought this could happen in America: Donald Trump's first remarks following arraignment The report stated that the threats, similar to the ones directed towards Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg and other officials, were received in the form of emails, letters and calls. New York police enhanced security around Merchan and the court and started providing “extra security to all affected staff members”, stated NBC. The biographies of employees working at Bragg’s office have been pulled out from the website of the district attorney. The New York Daily News, in its report, also claimed that Merchan and his family received threats and quoted a source telling them that “the content of the calls, emails and letters was … harassing and defamatory, with most of the trolls calling from out of state”. New York office of court administration's spokesperson Lucian Chalfen told the paper, “We continue to evaluate and re-evaluate security concerns and potential threats. We have maintained an increased security presence in and around courthouses and throughout the judiciary and will adjust protocols as necessary.” Meanwhile, retired conservative judge and former vice-president Mike Pence's adviser, who received national prominence after he gave testimony to the House January 6 committee, J Michael Luttig warned that Trump may receive a gag order over the attacks made by him on Judge Merchan. WATCH | Donald Trump to surrender for arraignment on criminal charges in Manhattan “There is no court that would want to impose a gag order on a president of the United States. But if the former president forces the Manhattan criminal court, the court will have no choice,” Luttig said. Manhattan district attorney's former rackets bureau chief Mike Scotto said, “A gag order is used to protect the defendant’s rights to a fair trial and also the government’s rights to a fair trial, so that the potential jurors don’t learn anything about the case that they’re not going to learn in court.” During the court proceedings, Merchan had warned Trump to “refrain from making statements that are likely to incite violence and civil unrest”. He had also said to Trump's lawyer, “I don’t share your view that certain language is justified by frustration.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Judge, who presided over Trump's arraignment, receives multiple threats

Porn star Stormy Daniels, who is at the centre of a historic indictment against former US president Donald Trump, has said that she does not think that Trump should be imprisoned in the matter of hush money payments made to her before the 2016 presidential campaign,&nbsp; even if he is convicted of concealing the payments. Talking to Fox News host Piers Morgan, Daniels said, "I don’t think that his crimes against me are worthy of incarceration."

"I feel like the other things that he has done, if he is found guilty, absolutely," Daniels told Morgan during the interview set to air on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Morgan described the 90-minute interview with 44-year-old Daniels as "astonishing" in his Twitter post.

"I just finished an astonishing 90-minute interview with Stormy Daniels," Morgan wrote on Twitter. "Everyone's had their say about her, now she tells HER story about the fling that may send President Trump to prison."&nbsp;

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I just finished an astonishing 90-minute interview with ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/StormyDaniels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StormyDaniels</a>⁩ Everyone’s had their say about her, now she tells HER story about the fling that may send President Trump to prison. It airs tomorrow on ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/PiersUncensored?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PiersUncensored</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/Ez0HCYJ4AA">pic.twitter.com/Ez0HCYJ4AA</a>
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1643757237259710464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Trump was arraigned in the matter in New York on Tuesday and indicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records over allegations he orchestrated hush-money payments to Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal to silence them about their alleged sexual encounters with him. He pleaded not guilty and has maintained that he did not have an affair with Stormy Daniels.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-stormy-daniels-the-porn-star-who-could-send-trump-to-jail-574948">Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the porn star who could send ex-prez Trump to jail</a>

When asked by Morgan if she would testify if had to, she said, "It's daunting, but I look forward to it. You know what I mean? Because I have nothing to hide. I'm the only one that has been telling the truth. And, you know, it can't shame me anymore."&nbsp;

Daniels feels that if she is called to testify, that just legitimises her side of the story.&nbsp;

"I think having them call me in and put me on the stand legitimises my story and who I am. And if they don't, it almost feels like they're hiding me," Daniels said.&nbsp;

Prosecutors in Manhattan say that Trump tried to conceal a violation of election laws during his successful 2016 campaign.

The next hearing in the case is set for December 4 and a trial isn't likely to start for another year, experts say.&nbsp;

Who is Stormy Daniels?

Trump has been tied in several legal cases, but the hush money payment matter regarding porn star Stormy Daniels is the one that can push him off the edge. The matter pertains to a hush money payment of $130,000 which Stormy Daniels says she was given when Trump was campaigning for the 2016 presidential election. It was given in lieu of her silence regarding an affair she had with Trump in 2006. She reportedly had sex with Trump right after his wife Melania gave birth to Barron Trump.

Stormy Daniels' real name is Stephanie Clifford. At the time the alleged affair happened, she was an established adult-entertainment actress and a director. She even had several awards to her name. Stormy is a Scotlandville Magnet High School graduate who once wanted to become a journalist. But her career took a massive turn when she visited a friend at a strip club at the age of 17 and soon started performing herself at a strip club in Baton Rouge. She changed her name soon after and chose "Stormy Daniels" since she loved the American rock band Mötley Crüe, and the band's bassist, Nikki Sixx, had named his daughter Storm.

She became an adult film actress and also directed several movies. Stormy Daniels has also appeared in a few mainstream TV shows and movies. She was in Steve Carell-starrer&nbsp;The 40-Year-Old Virgin&nbsp;and seen as a pole dancer in the Maroon 5 music video&nbsp;Wake Up Call.

In 2010, Stormy even tried her luck in politics and sought a Republican Senate nomination in Louisiana against David Vitter, but backed out soon after saying that she could not afford to run for the Senate and slammed the media for not taking her seriously.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Porn star Stormy Daniels, who is at the centre of a historic indictment against former US president Donald Trump, has said that she does not think that Trump should be imprisoned in the matter of hush money payments made to her before the 2016 presidential campaign, even if he is convicted of concealing the payments.

Porn star Stormy Daniels, who is at the centre of a historic indictment against former US president Donald Trump, has said that she does not think that Trump should be imprisoned in the matter of hush money payments made to her before the 2016 presidential campaign, even if he is convicted of concealing the payments. Talking to Fox News host Piers Morgan, Daniels said, "I don’t think that his crimes against me are worthy of incarceration." "I feel like the other things that he has done, if he is found guilty, absolutely," Daniels told Morgan during the interview set to air on Thursday. Morgan described the 90-minute interview with 44-year-old Daniels as "astonishing" in his Twitter post. "I just finished an astonishing 90-minute interview with Stormy Daniels," Morgan wrote on Twitter. "Everyone's had their say about her, now she tells HER story about the fling that may send President Trump to prison." WORLD EXCLUSIVE: I just finished an astonishing 90-minute interview with ⁦@StormyDaniels⁩ Everyone’s had their say about her, now she tells HER story about the fling that may send President Trump to prison. It airs tomorrow on ⁦@PiersUncensored⁩ pic.twitter.com/Ez0HCYJ4AA — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) April 5, 2023 × Trump was arraigned in the matter in New York on Tuesday and indicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records over allegations he orchestrated hush-money payments to Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal to silence them about their alleged sexual encounters with him. He pleaded not guilty and has maintained that he did not have an affair with Stormy Daniels. Also Read | Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the porn star who could send ex-prez Trump to jail When asked by Morgan if she would testify if had to, she said, "It's daunting, but I look forward to it. You know what I mean? Because I have nothing to hide. I'm the only one that has been telling the truth. And, you know, it can't shame me anymore." Daniels feels that if she is called to testify, that just legitimises her side of the story. "I think having them call me in and put me on the stand legitimises my story and who I am. And if they don't, it almost feels like they're hiding me," Daniels said. Prosecutors in Manhattan say that Trump tried to conceal a violation of election laws during his successful 2016 campaign. The next hearing in the case is set for December 4 and a trial isn't likely to start for another year, experts say. Who is Stormy Daniels? Trump has been tied in several legal cases, but the hush money payment matter regarding porn star Stormy Daniels is the one that can push him off the edge. The matter pertains to a hush money payment of $130,000 which Stormy Daniels says she was given when Trump was campaigning for the 2016 presidential election. It was given in lieu of her silence regarding an affair she had with Trump in 2006. She reportedly had sex with Trump right after his wife Melania gave birth to Barron Trump. Stormy Daniels' real name is Stephanie Clifford. At the time the alleged affair happened, she was an established adult-entertainment actress and a director. She even had several awards to her name. Stormy is a Scotlandville Magnet High School graduate who once wanted to become a journalist. But her career took a massive turn when she visited a friend at a strip club at the age of 17 and soon started performing herself at a strip club in Baton Rouge. She changed her name soon after and chose "Stormy Daniels" since she loved the American rock band Mötley Crüe, and the band's bassist, Nikki Sixx, had named his daughter Storm. She became an adult film actress and also directed several movies. Stormy Daniels has also appeared in a few mainstream TV shows and movies. She was in Steve Carell-starrer The 40-Year-Old Virgin and seen as a pole dancer in the Maroon 5 music video Wake Up Call. In 2010, Stormy even tried her luck in politics and sought a Republican Senate nomination in Louisiana against David Vitter, but backed out soon after saying that she could not afford to run for the Senate and slammed the media for not taking her seriously. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Stormy Daniels speaks up, says Trump doesn't deserve prison time in hush-money payment case

Former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (April 4) pleaded not guilty to 34 criminal charges stemming from hush money of $130,000 paid to porn actor Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election which he won. Trump, 76, became the first American president to be arrested on criminal charges, which have already upended the 2024 White House campaign.

Trump pleaded not guilty to all charges inside a Manhattan courthouse. The charges reportedly include the felony of conspiracy and stem from hush money paid to Daniels to keep quiet over an alleged affair.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stormy-seas-for-donald-trump-why-he-is-in-trouble-and-whats-the-case-about-578933">Explained | Stormy seas for Donald Trump: Why he is in trouble and what's the case about</a>

Last week, he was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury in the case brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.&nbsp;

Wearing a dark blue suit and red tie, Trump exhibited little emotion on his face as he waved to a crowd assembled outside the courthouse on Tuesday after he was driven in a motorcade from his New York residence at Trump Tower. "Seems so SURREAL -- WOW, they are going to ARREST ME," Trump posted on his Truth Social app ahead of the historic hearing.

Here are the top updates:&nbsp;

&gt;&nbsp;Hitting out at current President Joe Biden and his administration, Trump said that America was going to hell, and the world was already laughing at the country for so many reasons.&nbsp;

&gt; In his first remarks following arraignment, Trump said he never thought anything like this could happen in America. "The only crime that I've committed is to fearlessly defend our nation from those who seek to destroy it... It's an insult to our country," he told an audience of several hundred donors, political allies and other supporters at the Mar-a-Lago, his beachfront mansion in southern Florida.&nbsp;

&gt;&nbsp;Manhattan District <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/would-not-allow-donald-trump-to-get-away-with-lawbreaking-manhattan-da-579208">Attorney Alvin Bragg&nbsp;said on Tuesday</a> that he would not allow Donald Trump to get&nbsp;away with lawbreaking after charging him with multiple felonies over the&nbsp;hush money payments.&nbsp;"These are felony crimes in New York State. No matter who you are we cannot and will not normalize serious criminal conduct," Bragg said, adding "We today uphold our solemn responsibility to ensure that everyone stands equal before the law."

&gt; Trump was released from custody without any pre-trial restrictions at the arraignment. Judge Juan&nbsp;Merchan said during the hearing&nbsp;that a trial could potentially start in January 2024, although&nbsp;Trump's lawyers indicated they would rather push it back to the spring, according to a report by the news agency AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Donald Trump pleads not guilty to 34 felony counts in hush money case

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&gt; Trump has been charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records stemming from three pre-election hush-money cases. In a statement,&nbsp;Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said, "Donald J.&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;repeatedly and fraudulently falsified New York business records to conceal criminal conduct that hid damaging information from the voting public during the 2016 presidential election."

&gt;&nbsp;Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche vowed to fight the criminal charges that the former president faces. "The indictment itself is boilerplate," Blanche said, adding&nbsp;the indictment was "sad and we're going to fight it, we're going to fight it hard."

&gt; The former US president was seen leaving the court after pleading not guilty to the criminal charges. He&nbsp;exited the building and made his way to a waiting motorcade, just over two hours after arriving at the Manhattan court complex for the historic hearing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (April 4) pleaded not guilty to 34 criminal charges stemming from hush money of $130,000 paid to porn actor Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election which he won.

Former United States president Donald Trump on Tuesday (April 4) pleaded not guilty to 34 criminal charges stemming from hush money of $130,000 paid to porn actor Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election which he won. Trump, 76, became the first American president to be arrested on criminal charges, which have already upended the 2024 White House campaign. Trump pleaded not guilty to all charges inside a Manhattan courthouse. The charges reportedly include the felony of conspiracy and stem from hush money paid to Daniels to keep quiet over an alleged affair. ALSO READ | Explained | Stormy seas for Donald Trump: Why he is in trouble and what's the case about Last week, he was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury in the case brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. Wearing a dark blue suit and red tie, Trump exhibited little emotion on his face as he waved to a crowd assembled outside the courthouse on Tuesday after he was driven in a motorcade from his New York residence at Trump Tower. "Seems so SURREAL -- WOW, they are going to ARREST ME," Trump posted on his Truth Social app ahead of the historic hearing. Here are the top updates: > Hitting out at current President Joe Biden and his administration, Trump said that America was going to hell, and the world was already laughing at the country for so many reasons. > In his first remarks following arraignment, Trump said he never thought anything like this could happen in America. "The only crime that I've committed is to fearlessly defend our nation from those who seek to destroy it... It's an insult to our country," he told an audience of several hundred donors, political allies and other supporters at the Mar-a-Lago, his beachfront mansion in southern Florida. > Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said on Tuesday that he would not allow Donald Trump to get away with lawbreaking after charging him with multiple felonies over the hush money payments. "These are felony crimes in New York State. No matter who you are we cannot and will not normalize serious criminal conduct," Bragg said, adding "We today uphold our solemn responsibility to ensure that everyone stands equal before the law." > Trump was released from custody without any pre-trial restrictions at the arraignment. Judge Juan Merchan said during the hearing that a trial could potentially start in January 2024, although Trump's lawyers indicated they would rather push it back to the spring, according to a report by the news agency AFP. ALSO WATCH | Donald Trump pleads not guilty to 34 felony counts in hush money case × > Trump has been charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records stemming from three pre-election hush-money cases. In a statement, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said, "Donald J. Trump repeatedly and fraudulently falsified New York business records to conceal criminal conduct that hid damaging information from the voting public during the 2016 presidential election." > Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche vowed to fight the criminal charges that the former president faces. "The indictment itself is boilerplate," Blanche said, adding the indictment was "sad and we're going to fight it, we're going to fight it hard." > The former US president was seen leaving the court after pleading not guilty to the criminal charges. He exited the building and made his way to a waiting motorcade, just over two hours after arriving at the Manhattan court complex for the historic hearing. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Donald Trump pleads not guilty to criminal charges in hush-money case: Top updates

First images of Trump’s historic arrest emerge as former president pleads ‘not guilty’

Manhattan District Attorney (DA) Alvin Bragg said on Tuesday (April 4) that he would not allow Donald Trump to get away with lawbreaking after charging the former United States president with a string of felonies over hush money payments.

Manhattan District Attorney (DA) Alvin Bragg said on Tuesday (April 4) that he would not allow Donald Trump to get away with lawbreaking after charging the former United States president with a string of felonies over hush money payments. "These are felony crimes in New York State. No matter who you are we cannot and will not normalize serious criminal conduct," Bragg told reporters, the news agency AFP reported. "We today uphold our solemn responsibility to ensure that everyone stands equal before the law," Bragg added. Donald Trump, 76, has been charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records stemming from three pre-election hush-money cases. ALSO READ | Donald Trump pleads not guilty to criminal charges in hush-money case: Top updates In a statement, Alvin Bragg said, "Donald J. Trump repeatedly and fraudulently falsified New York business records to conceal criminal conduct that hid damaging information from the voting public during the 2016 presidential election." Bragg said that Trump arranged for the payment of $130,000 to porn actor Stormy Daniels to buy her silence about a 2006 sexual encounter. A payment of $30,000 was made through an intermediary to a former Trump Tower doorman who was claiming that the former president had fathered a child out of wedlock, Bragg said. ALSO READ | Explained | Stormy seas for Donald Trump: Why he is in trouble and what's the case about And the third and final case involved a woman who received $150,000 from a US tabloid in exchange for not speaking about a sexual relationship she allegedly had with Trump. Earlier on Tuesday, Trump pleaded not guilty to all 34 felony counts as he became the first American president to be arrested on criminal charges. "Not guilty," Trump said in a clear voice inside the Manhattan courtroom. The former president was released from custody without any pre-trial restrictions at the arraignment. Judge Juan Merchan said during the hearing that a trial could potentially start in January 2024, although Trump's lawyers indicated they would rather push it back to the spring. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Would not allow Donald Trump to get away with lawbreaking: Manhattan DA

Former United States president Donald Trump arrived in New York City on his private plane on Monday (April 3) to face charges stemming from a probe into hush money of $130,000 paid to porn star Stormy Daniels. Daniels said she was paid the money to keep silent about a sexual encounter she had with Trump, 76, at a Lake Tahoe hotel back in 2006. Trump, however, denies having had any such relationship with her.

Trump, the first US president ever to be criminally indicted, will be formally charged Tuesday over the case. He is due to surrender at the Attorney's Office and will likely be fingerprinted before appearing before a judge for an arraignment where he will plead not guilty.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-campaign-is-surprisingly-benefitting-from-his-indictment-578730">Trump campaign is surprisingly benefitting from his indictment</a>

Trump waved at supporters as he walked into his Trump Tower residence under tight security just before 4:15 pm (2015 GMT) after flying from Florida. Before arriving in New York, the former president took to his social media platform Truth Social and said, "THEY'RE NOT COMING AFTER ME, THEY'RE COMING AFTER YOU -- I'M JUST STANDING IN THEIR WAY!"

Speaking to the news agency Reuters, two sources said that Trump hired Todd Blanche, a prominent white-collar criminal defence lawyer, and former federal prosecutor, to join his defence.&nbsp;

Blanche and other Trump lawyers on Monday urged the judge not to allow videography, photography, and radio coverage of the arraignment.

Police have been on high alert with security cordons and Secret Service agents outside both Trump Tower and the court in Lower Manhattan. Earlier, NYC Mayor Eric Adams warned that anyone protesting violently would be arrested and held accountable, no matter who they are.&nbsp;

"While there may be some rabble-rousers thinking about coming to our city tomorrow our message is clear, is simple: 'control yourselves'," Adams told reporters.

Donald Trump, who is eyeing a return in 2024, is facing several criminal investigations at the state and federal levels over possible wrongdoing. The investigations include his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia, his handling of classified documents, and his possible involvement in the storming of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.

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Former United States president Donald Trump arrived in New York City on his private plane on Monday (April 3) to face charges stemming from a probe into hush money of $130,000 paid to porn star Stormy Daniels.

Former United States president Donald Trump arrived in New York City on his private plane on Monday (April 3) to face charges stemming from a probe into hush money of $130,000 paid to porn star Stormy Daniels. Daniels said she was paid the money to keep silent about a sexual encounter she had with Trump, 76, at a Lake Tahoe hotel back in 2006. Trump, however, denies having had any such relationship with her. Trump, the first US president ever to be criminally indicted, will be formally charged Tuesday over the case. He is due to surrender at the Attorney's Office and will likely be fingerprinted before appearing before a judge for an arraignment where he will plead not guilty. ALSO READ | Trump campaign is surprisingly benefitting from his indictment Trump waved at supporters as he walked into his Trump Tower residence under tight security just before 4:15 pm (2015 GMT) after flying from Florida. Before arriving in New York, the former president took to his social media platform Truth Social and said, "THEY'RE NOT COMING AFTER ME, THEY'RE COMING AFTER YOU -- I'M JUST STANDING IN THEIR WAY!" Speaking to the news agency Reuters, two sources said that Trump hired Todd Blanche, a prominent white-collar criminal defence lawyer, and former federal prosecutor, to join his defence. Blanche and other Trump lawyers on Monday urged the judge not to allow videography, photography, and radio coverage of the arraignment. Police have been on high alert with security cordons and Secret Service agents outside both Trump Tower and the court in Lower Manhattan. Earlier, NYC Mayor Eric Adams warned that anyone protesting violently would be arrested and held accountable, no matter who they are. "While there may be some rabble-rousers thinking about coming to our city tomorrow our message is clear, is simple: 'control yourselves'," Adams told reporters. Donald Trump, who is eyeing a return in 2024, is facing several criminal investigations at the state and federal levels over possible wrongdoing. The investigations include his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia, his handling of classified documents, and his possible involvement in the storming of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ex-US president Trump arrives in New York to surrender in hush money case

A New York grand jury indicted Donald Trump in connection with a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels. Trump is the first former US president to be charged with a crime.

Former US President Donald Trump indicted in hush money case

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