Surreal scenes as jurors in New York trial tell Trump what they really think

As jury selection in Donald Trump’s criminal hush-money case started this week, it seemed like the former president would face a tough crowd.

When Judge Juan Merchan asked the first group of 96 prospective jurors whether any thought themselves incapable of being be fair and impartial, more than 50 raised their hands.

“Resist the urge to flee the courtroom,” prosecutor Joshua Steinglass said, cautioning jury candidates not to agonize over why they, of all people, wound up as prospects on Trump ’s trial.

“If we were sitting at a bar, I’d be happy to tell you, but in this room what I feel about President Trump is not important or inherent to either the case you’re presenting or you’re defending.”

Guardian staff will send weekly updates each Wednesday – as well as bonus editions on major trial days.

“I don’t really care for the views, to be completely honest with you,” but “President Trump speaks his mind.” The aspirant said she would rather that over a politician who did not do so.