Trump's Gag Order Partially Lifted, Allowing Him to Speak About Protected Witnesses and Jurors

Weeks after being found guilty on all counts, former President Donald Trump has had his gag order partially lifted by Judge Juan Merchan. This allows Trump to make public statements about protected witnesses and jurors.

Weeks after the jury found him guilty on all counts, former President Donald Trump has had his gag order partially lifted by Judge Juan Merchan. This allows Trump to speak about protected witnesses and jurors.

Trump and his legal team had been fighting the gag order since it was imposed upon him at the start of the trial. They argued that the gag order should be lifted before the June 27 presidential debate.

Trump's Gag Order Partially Lifted, Allowing Him to Speak About Protected Witnesses and Jurors

Merchan's gag order barred Trump from making or directing others to make public statements about witnesses with regard to their potential participation or about counsel in the case – other than Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg – or about court staff, DA staff or family members of staff.

On Tuesday, Merchan partially lifted the gag order because the trial has concluded.

Trump's Gag Order Partially Lifted, Allowing Him to Speak About Protected Witnesses and Jurors

As a result, Trump is now able to speak about protected witnesses and jurors. However, he is still blocked from commenting about individual prosecutors, court staff and their family members. That portion of the gag order will remain in effect until Trump's sentencing on July 11.

Trump's legal team welcomed the decision, saying that it was "a victory for the First Amendment."

"The gag order was an unconstitutional prior restraint on Mr. Trump's speech," said Alina Habba, one of Trump's attorneys. "We are pleased that the court has recognized this and has partially lifted the order."

The Manhattan District Attorney's office declined to comment on the ruling.

The partial lifting of the gag order is a significant development in the case. It will allow Trump to speak more freely about the trial and its outcome. It could also give him a boost in the upcoming presidential election.

Trump is the presumptive Republican nominee for president in 2024. He is facing a challenge from former Vice President Mike Pence, among others.

The presidential election is scheduled for November 5, 2024.