The trial, anticipated to feature the testimony of former US President Donald Trump in the civil defamation case brought by writer E Jean Carroll, is set to experience a delay of at least one day. The postponement arises as one of the nine jurors reported feeling “nauseous and hot” and was subsequently sent home, as disclosed by US District Judge Lewis Kaplan on Monday.
Trump’s legal counsel, Alina Habba, also cited personal circumstances, reporting that at least one of her parents has contracted COVID-19. Habba, who exhibited symptoms of a fever, tested negative for the virus along with her co-counsel, Michael Madaio, on Monday. Following the announcement of the trial delay, Habba sought the judge’s consideration in rescheduling Trump’s testimony to Wednesday, pointing to the New Hampshire Republican primary scheduled for Tuesday. However, Kaplan did not immediately render a decision on the timing of Trump’s testimony.
Last week, during Carroll’s testimony accusing Trump of defamation after she alleged rape in the 1990s, the former president voiced his consistent denial of the allegations. Trump, who last week characterized the proceedings as a “witch hunt” and a “con job,” faced a judge’s warning to leave the courtroom if such outbursts persisted.
More Read
The ongoing trial revolves around determining the damages Trump should pay Carroll for defaming her in June 2019 when he rejected her accusations. Trump’s legal team has not only contested the allegations but also engaged in a broader narrative, asserting that he is being persecuted by Democrats, using both court appearances and campaign events to make this argument. Carroll’s lawyers have urged Judge Kaplan to compel Trump to affirm his understanding and acceptance of the court’s restrictions on his statements before providing any testimony.
