New York Justice Juan Merchan corrected Todd Blanche, an attorney for Donald Trump, after he said a gag order prevented the former president from responding to his opponent, President Joe Biden.
The exchange came during a Thursday hearing, during which prosecutors presented evidence that Trump had violated a limited gag order multiple times. The order was designed to prevent Trump from attacking potential witnesses, jurors, court staff, and their families. Under the order, Trump was allowed to speak about Merchan and District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
During oral arguments, Blanche complained that Biden had referred to an adult film star, Stormy Daniels, whom Trump is accused of paying hush money after an alleged affair. Biden said Trump was experiencing "Stormy weather."
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"How can Trump respond?" Blanche asked.
"He can't respond without mentioning a witness?" Merchan asked.
Blanche argued that Trump was "limited" in what he could say, while Biden was not.
Trump is "not allowed to mention foreseeable witnesses in the case," Merchan explained. "He can certainly respond to President Biden. There's nothing that says he can’t respond to President Biden."
Seeming defeated, Blanche moved on to the next topic.
