In a courtroom ruling on [date], Judge Juan Merchan of New York has imposed a gag order on former President Donald Trump, restricting him from making statements regarding potential witnesses in his upcoming criminal trial. The trial, which centers around hush money payments, is set to begin with jury selection on April 15.

The gag order explicitly prohibits Trump from making public statements about attorneys, court staff, and the family members of prosecutors or lawyers involved in the case. Its purpose is to prevent any interference or tampering with the trial proceedings.

However, the order does not cover New York District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who is considered a public figure and thus immune to such restrictions. This exemption ensures that Bragg can freely discuss the trial and related matters with the media.

Furthermore, the gag order also extends to any statements made by Trump or those acting on his behalf concerning potential or actual jurors. This measure aims to safeguard the integrity of the jury selection process, allowing it to proceed impartially and without outside influence.

Trump's criminal trial centers on 34 counts of falsifying business records, which are linked to reimbursements made to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, for hush money payments. These payments were allegedly made to adult film star Stormy Daniels to prevent her from revealing an alleged affair with Trump before the 2016 election. The former president has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to the charges and categorically denying the alleged affair.

Originally slated to commence earlier, the trial's start date was delayed due to a dispute regarding the late production of documents. This setback prompted Judge Merchan to push back the trial's commencement to allow for ample review and consideration.

With the gag order now in place, Trump will be required to refrain from making any statements that could potentially influence the trial's outcome or disrupt its proceedings. The order underscores the court's commitment to ensuring a fair and impartial trial for all parties involved.

As the trial draws nearer, all eyes will be on the courtroom, as the legal battle unfolds and the former president's fate hangs in the balance.