The start date for Donald Trump’s first criminal trial has been pushed back by about three weeks, as approved by the Manhattan judge overseeing the case. Originally scheduled to begin on March 25, the trial will now likely commence in mid-April and could extend until after Memorial Day.
Reason for Delay
The delay stems from the sudden production of approximately 80,000 pages of potential evidence by federal prosecutors in Manhattan regarding their 2018 prosecution of key witness Michael Cohen. This last-minute evidence dump prompted the judge to postpone the trial start date to allow both the defense and prosecution sufficient time to review the new materials.
Blame Game
Both sides, the defense and Manhattan prosecutors, have traded blame for the delay. While the defense argues that the late evidence dump necessitated more time for preparation, prosecutors criticize the US Attorney’s Office for unnecessary delays in the case.
Uncertain Timeline
Judge Merchan, who presides over the trial, has not set a specific new date for jury selection but has adjourned the trial for 30 days from the date of his letter to prosecutors and the defense. However, a hearing on the defense’s motion to dismiss the case over the evidence issue is scheduled for March 25.
Extended Trial Period
The trial, expected to last six weeks, could now run from mid-April until just after Memorial Day. This timeline accommodates the judge’s plan to grant jurors the fourth week of April off, coinciding with New York City schools’ spring break and Passover week.
Continued Defense
Steven Cheung, the Trump campaign communications director, reiterated their commitment to fighting the case, labeling it a “hoax” and part of “Crooked Joe Biden-directed Witch Hunts.” Despite the delay, the defense remains resolute in their efforts to challenge the charges against Trump.
Clara Cardoso
