Former federal prosecutor Joyce Vance believes that a gag order placed on former President Trump due to hush money payments will likely be extended due to his recent criticisms of the New York judge and his daughter. expandedThis is in response to Trump's recent attacks on the New York judge and his daughter.
Vance, a former U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, mentioned that judges usually don't require protection, but in this case, it is necessary due to Trump's unique situation. said Friday Vance mentioned on MSNBC’s “Alex Wagner Tonight,” that most good lawyers will ensure that their clients behave and not threaten the judge or their family, making this situation unusual.
Vance told host Alex Wagner that the judge will have to take action regardless of his personal feelings, as it's not just about protecting himself or his daughter.
Judge Juan Merchan imposed the gag order on Trump to prevent him from publicly attacking witnesses, prosecutors, court staff, and their family members with the intent to interfere with the case, but the order did not seem to apply to the judge or his family. prosecutors argued Friday that it should be clarified or confirmed whether it does.
Vance supported the request, emphasizing the real problem of how Trump's words impact those without sufficient protection.
She also mentioned that others may be fearful for themselves and their families, and it could have serious effects if not addressed by the judge.
Trump lashed out at Judge Merchan’s daughter Loren, who works for a progressive political consulting firm that has ties to Democrats including President Biden and Vice President Harris.
Loren Merchan previously had an account on X (formerly known as Twitter) that displayed a photo illustration of Trump in prison, but a court spokesperson stated that the account is no longer linked to her and has since gone private. She no longer has a link to that account, and it is now private with an updated photo.In a post on Truth Social, Trump pointed out that Judge Merchan's daughter was allowed to post about her desire to imprison him, while he was not permitted to discuss the attacks against him.
Vance explained that Trump's negative remarks could negatively impact the case which is scheduled for trial on April 15.
She indicated that those targeted by Trump's comments have valid concerns, and his rhetoric may adversely affect the ongoing case.
Vance remarked that public servants expect a certain level of risk, but it's unexpected for a former U.S. president to direct hate towards them, and Trump is running out of excuses.
“His words are basically suggesting that he wants people to proceed and act when he singles out someone,” Vance later said.
Trump is accused of 34 charges in New York for allegedly unlawfully falsifying business records while repaying his former fixer, Michael Cohen, for paying off adult film actress Stormy Daniels to hide an alleged affair before the 2016 election. He has entered a plea of not guilty.
