"Trump's Unprecedented Gag Order Backlash: A Watergate Prosecutor's Perspective"

Former Watergate prosecutor Nick Akerman called the gag order imposed on former President Trump in his hush money payments case "so unusual" and "never happens" in his 50 years of law practice, as New York Judge Juan Merchan issued the order following a request from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. The gag order prohibits Trump from making public statements about witnesses, counsel, court and DA staff, family members, and prospective jurors. Trump has criticized the order, calling it "illegal, un-American, unconstitutional," and suggesting it was related to the judge's daughter's political consulting firm. Former Acting U.S. Attorney General Matt Whitaker expressed concerns about the gag orders, while Akerman warned that Trump's pattern of disparaging and threatening individuals could lead to legal consequences.