"Judge Warns of Violence Risk as Trump's Gag Order Appeal Denied in Fraud Trial"
The judge presiding over Donald Trump's civil fraud case in New York warned an appellate court that lifting the gag order on Trump would pose a "risk of violence." The judge's attorney emphasized that the gag order only restricts discussion about the judge's staff and does not impede Trump's ability to speak on other topics. The attorney argued that any claim of interference with First Amendment rights should be viewed skeptically, noting that Trump has a history of drawing fervor and animosity from his followers, some of whom are willing to engage in violence. Threats and harassment towards the judge and his clerk have increased when Trump mentions the clerk, and have decreased when the gag order is in place. Trump is expected to appear in court on Thursday.