USA (Washington Insider Magazine)—Facing a gag order in his New York hush money trial, former President Donald Trump risks jail time if he attacks witnesses directly. However, his allies are increasingly taking on that role, with remarks targeting key witnesses, especially Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer and “fixer.”
On Monday, as Cohen testified about Trump’s involvement in efforts to suppress damaging stories during the 2016 election, GOP Senators J.D. Vance of Ohio and Tommy Tuberville of Alabama sharply criticized Cohen. Tuberville dismissed Cohen’s testimony, calling him “a convicted felon” and suggesting his statements were “an acting scene.” Vance, in a series of sarcastic posts on X, questioned Cohen’s credibility, highlighting inconsistencies in his recollections.
The gag order has led Trump’s allies, including his sons Donald Jr. and Eric, to step up public defenses and criticisms at the courthouse. Both sons, though not implicated in this case, have attended trial sessions, with Eric Trump showing visible support for his father.
The court-imposed gag order, enforced by Judge Juan Merchan, restricts Trump’s comments on witnesses and court officials but does not limit his allies. Despite Trump’s continued public objections to the order, Judge Merchan has enforced it rigorously, fining Trump multiple times and warning that further violations could lead to jail time.
Legal experts are divided on whether Trump will testify in his defense, though his attorneys may advise against it. Meanwhile, additional allies, including Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and Republican attorneys general Brenna Bird and Steve Marshall, have shown their support by appearing at the courthouse as Trump’s trial continues.
