Trump's lawyers object to media broadcasting of his arraignment, citing security concerns and the need to avoid a "circus-like atmosphere". In a letter to New York Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchant, they argue that allowing cameras and audio recording at the hearing will only heighten security concerns related to Secret Service protection.
The team's letter notes that Trump is required under court rules to consider potential security concerns. They also point out that there doesn't appear to be a categorical prohibition on cameras during an arraignment under existing New York statutes and case law.
However, prosecutors from the Manhattan District Attorney's office say they will defer to the judge's decision on how best to manage the courtroom. While they stop short of opposing the request, their lawyer notes that a similar request was made for audio-video broadcasting at Trump's 2021 arraignment in another tax fraud case and the judge allowed limited still photographs to be taken.
CNN is one of several outlets requesting camera access for Tuesday's arraignment. The decision on whether cameras will be allowed or not rests with the judge, who has yet to make a ruling.
The request by media outlets to broadcast Trump's arraignment comes ahead of his indictment and potential trial in New York. It raises questions about how much coverage of the proceedings can take place without compromising security concerns or the defendant's rights. The outcome will likely shape the way news organizations cover trials and court hearings in the future.
The team's letter notes that Trump is required under court rules to consider potential security concerns. They also point out that there doesn't appear to be a categorical prohibition on cameras during an arraignment under existing New York statutes and case law.
However, prosecutors from the Manhattan District Attorney's office say they will defer to the judge's decision on how best to manage the courtroom. While they stop short of opposing the request, their lawyer notes that a similar request was made for audio-video broadcasting at Trump's 2021 arraignment in another tax fraud case and the judge allowed limited still photographs to be taken.
CNN is one of several outlets requesting camera access for Tuesday's arraignment. The decision on whether cameras will be allowed or not rests with the judge, who has yet to make a ruling.
The request by media outlets to broadcast Trump's arraignment comes ahead of his indictment and potential trial in New York. It raises questions about how much coverage of the proceedings can take place without compromising security concerns or the defendant's rights. The outcome will likely shape the way news organizations cover trials and court hearings in the future.
! Trump's lawyers trying to keep the drama under wraps, but I'm not buying it 
. Like, can we just get a live feed of this? People are already hyped about the arraignment and now they're making us wait? Come on, Judge Merchant, let's get this over with 
.
. He's gonna sit in that chair and answer questions like a normal person, right? I mean, security is important and all, but we're not talking about some super high-profile event here 
. It's just an arraignment, you know?
? Trump's lawyers trying to stifle free press, but then they're like "oh no, it's gonna be a circus" 
. Mark my words!
. Can't have a "circus-like atmosphere" when millions are watching 
.
, like it's gonna make a difference on his indictment... 
.
! The way we consume news is gonna change so much with this. It's like, the future of journalism is happening right before our eyes 
.
I think it's a bit ridiculous that they have to ask permission from the court just to show what's happening in real-time. Shouldn't we get some kind of transparency here? 
It's not like this is a high-security prison or something... 
like, isn't this a public event? But I guess when you're accused of something, you want to control the narrative, right? 
Anyway, I think it's kinda cool that CNN is pushing for camera access - it's gonna be all about how the media portrays this trial and whether it'll affect Trump's public image. Like, will he still be "The Donald" or will his arraignment go down in history as a major scandal? 
. It's kinda interesting how his team is citing security concerns, but also kinda wondering if they're just trying to avoid getting caught on camera 
. But seriously, security concerns are legit 
It feels like they're trying to hide something. Anyway, I'm more worried about my math homework 
gotta get back to that ASAP!
The fact that he needs security concerns cited as an excuse to block cameras and audio recording just feels like an attempt to control the narrative 
. The media outlets are right to push for access, though - a defendant has the right to be scrutinized under the law too 
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. I guess we'll just have to wait and see what Judge Merchant decides 
The Secret Service can handle themselves, right? And what about the public's right to know? It's like they're trying to spin this as some kind of spectacle, when really it's just a bunch of lawyers talking in court 
. I think the judge should let cameras in, it'll be good for transparency and all that jazz. But at the same time, I get why security is a concern - we don't want no one getting hurt 
. I'm still rooting for Trump to make it through this thing and come out on top 
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According to CNN, over 70% of Americans prefer to watch trials live on TV 
.