Trump Barred from Speaking During Closing Arguments in Criminal Trial

Judge Juan Merchan has denied former President Trump's request to address the jury during closing arguments in his criminal trial. Trump has maintained his innocence in the case, which involves allegations of falsifying business records to conceal a payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels.

Judge Juan Merchan has denied former President Trump's request to address the jury during closing arguments in his criminal trial. The decision comes as the trial nears its conclusion, with closing arguments scheduled to begin Tuesday.

Trump has maintained his innocence in the case, which involves allegations of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels in the lead-up to the 2016 election. The payment was allegedly made to silence Daniels about an alleged affair with Trump in 2006.

Prosecutors allege that Trump directed his former attorney, Michael Cohen, to make the payment and conceal it from his wife and the public. Cohen has testified that he made the payment using a home equity line of credit and was subsequently reimbursed by Trump's company, the Trump Organization.

Trump's defense attorneys have argued that the payment was not made to conceal any wrongdoing and that it was a personal matter between Trump and Cohen. They have also questioned the credibility of Cohen, who has pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about the payment.

In a hearing on Monday, Trump's attorney, Alina Habba, argued that Trump should be allowed to address the jury because it is his "right" to do so. Judge Merchan, however, ruled that Trump's request was "premature" and that he could not speak during closing arguments.

Merchan noted that Trump has had the opportunity to call witnesses and present evidence during the trial and that closing arguments are reserved for the attorneys. He also said that Trump could still make a statement if he is convicted at sentencing.

The jury in the case has been deliberating since last Tuesday and has indicated that it may stay late into the evening or continue deliberations into Wednesday. If the jury is unable to reach a verdict, Merchan has said he will declare a mistrial.

Trump has criticized the trial and the decision of prosecutors to charge him with a crime. He has described the case as a "witch hunt" and has vowed to fight the charges.

The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for Trump's political future. If he is convicted, it could damage his standing with his supporters and make it more difficult for him to run for president again. A conviction could also lead to fines or even jail time for Trump.