The vast majority of potential jurors in the Manhattan Federal Court trial of former President Trump have been dismissed after admitting their inability to remain impartial, multiple sources revealed on Monday.
The jury selection process saw jurors being excused within minutes. Trump faces charges of allegedly falsifying business records to conceal hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, facilitated by his former attorney Michael Cohen. Trump has pleaded not guilty to these allegations.
Axios reported that out of the initial pool of 96 potential jurors, at least 50 have been dismissed. This poses a challenge in forming a suitable jury for the trial, given Trump’s controversial status in politics and media, the high-profile nature of the sex scandal trial, and his candidacy for the Republican nomination for the US presidency, setting up a potential rematch against incumbent President Biden.
Reports indicate that only 34 prospective jurors remain, with 12 to be ultimately selected to serve on the jury for the trial.
Those that are chosen
Prospective jurors for the Trump trial, those who have remained and are likely to be selected, will be required to complete a questionnaire that delves into their media consumption habits. Additionally, they will be asked whether they have any family members or acquaintances who volunteered for the Trump presidential campaign. Axios reported that legal teams will conduct thorough investigations into the jurors’ social media activity to identify any potential biases that could influence the trial.
One juror, upon leaving the courtroom, expressed their inability to participate, stating, “I just couldn’t do it,” according to media outlets.
To protect their identities amid the intense public scrutiny surrounding the trial, jurors will remain anonymous, as reported by BBC. It’s noteworthy that among the four legal cases Trump is facing, this trial will be the only one to proceed to court before the November 2024 election. If found guilty, Trump would be the first convicted felon to become a party nominee.
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