A historic criminal trial involving former US President Donald Trump is set to begin in New York City, with a full 12-person jury sworn in for the proceedings.
The selection of the jury was completed swiftly, surprising many who expected the process to take weeks.
The trial revolves around a hush-money payment of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election, allegedly to buy her silence about an affair she claims she had with Mr. Trump. This trial marks the first time a former US president is the defendant in a criminal case.
As Mr. Trump left the courtroom, he expressed frustration with the charges against him, calling them “political” and a “hoax.” He also criticized the temperature in the courtroom, describing it as “freezing.”
The jury selection process faced some setbacks, with two jurors being excused, one due to external pressure causing impartiality concerns and another due to potential dishonesty about a criminal history. Legal experts noted the uncommon nature of jurors being dismissed after being seated.
The hunt for impartial jurors continued, with a rigorous screening process to ensure fairness in the trial.
Several potential jurors were excused due to their strong opinions about Mr. Trump, while one was dismissed due to a personal connection to one of Trump’s lawyers.
