In a surprising turn of events, Judge Juan Merchan presiding over the hush money case involving former President Donald Trump clarified on Friday that Trump is indeed allowed to testify during the trial. This clarification comes in response to Trump's assertion a day earlier that a gag order prevented him from doing so.

Addressing the courtroom at the start of Friday's proceedings, Judge Merchan acknowledged the misunderstanding surrounding the gag order and Trump's ability to testify, deeming it vital to set the record straight. "I want to stress Mr. Trump that you have an absolute right to testify at trial," the Judge declared, assuring the former president that he also has the absolute right not to testify.

Judge Merchan emphasized that the gag order does not restrict Trump's ability to take the witness stand but rather applies solely to statements made outside of the courtroom. This clarification stands in contrast to Trump's remarks after Thursday's adjournment, when he incorrectly claimed he was prohibited from testifying due to the gag order.

During the press conference, Trump expressed frustration with Judge Merchan, stating that the judge was "totally conflicted" and had placed him under an "unconstitutional gag order." However, the judge's comments make it clear that Trump's testimony is not hindered by the gag order but rather by his own decision-making.

It is important to note that the gag order prohibits Trump from making public statements regarding jurors and witnesses involved in the case. Additionally, he is forbidden from attacking court staff, line prosecutors, and their families, as well as the families of the judge and district attorney, with the intention of materially interfering with the trial. As a result of repeated violations, the judge had previously fined Trump $9,000.

Despite his earlier claims to the contrary, Trump has previously expressed his willingness to testify in his own trial. Just a few weeks ago, after a meeting with Speaker Mike Johnson at his Mar-a-Lago residence, he affirmed that he would indeed testify, calling the trial a "scam."

As the trial continues, with Trump now aware of his right to testify, it remains to be seen whether he will choose to take the witness stand. The former president's testimony, should he decide to provide it, is sure to be a highly anticipated and consequential moment in this closely watched hush money case.