Trump Criminal Trial-Judge Merchan Declines on Recusal Request

NATION : In a recent decision made involving former President Donald Trump's criminal trial, Judge Juan Merchan has once again denied former President Donald Trump's request for recusal from his New York criminal case

The decision by Merchan marks the third time Trump has sought Merchan's removal, citing a conflict of interest due to Merchan's daughter's work as a Democratic consultant

Trump's lawyers argued that Merchan's daughter’s firm had supported Vice President Kamala Harris, which they claimed could bias the judge

In his ruling, Merchan stated that Trump's arguments were repetitive and unsubstantiated

The judge emphasized that a state ethics panel had previously concluded that his daughter's activities did not compromise his impartiality

Merchan also criticized Trump's legal team for their persistent efforts, noting that professional responsibility should not be sacrificed for zealous advocacy

Trump's sentencing is scheduled for September 18, 2024, following his conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records