Donald Trump seeks to lift ban in hush money case

Former US president Donald Trump has filed a request with the court to lift the ban imposed on him in the hush money case involving payments to adult actress Stormy Daniels. The ban was put in place by Justice Juan Merchan before the trial began in April, citing concerns about Trump's past statements.

Trump's lawyer, Todd Blanche, argues that now that the trial is over, there is no justification for restricting Trump's First Amendment rights. Stormy Daniels alleged that the payment was made to keep her quiet about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump, a claim he denies.

Despite being convicted on related charges, Trump plans to appeal the decision, criticizing the gag order as an infringement on his free speech rights. The Manhattan District Attorney's office has not yet responded to the request to lift the ban.

During the trial, Trump was fined for multiple violations of the gag order, including social media posts and interviews where he criticized key figures involved in the case. Justice Merchan had warned Trump about potential jail time for further violations.

Blanche also pointed out that President Joe Biden and others have publicly commented on the case, arguing that the gag order should be lifted to ensure fairness.

Donald Trump's request to lift the ban in the hush money case involving Stormy Daniels has sparked a legal battle over free speech rights and the fairness of gag orders. As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of this case will have significant implications for the boundaries of free speech and the rights of individuals involved in high-profile legal disputes.