Manhattan prosecutors are standing firm in their opposition to former President Donald Trump's request to have the gag order imposed against him lifted. Trump, who was found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree, has repeatedly sought to have the order lifted, citing the upcoming 2024 presidential election and his First Amendment rights.

The six-week-long trial, brought forth by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, concluded last week with Trump's conviction. However, Judge Juan Merchan had imposed a gag order before the trial began, prohibiting Trump from making public statements about potential witnesses, counsel in the case (other than Bragg), court staff, DA staff, or their family members.

Trump's defense attorney, Todd Blanche, wrote a letter to Merchan on Tuesday requesting, once again, that the gag order be lifted. The request mentioned the upcoming presidential debate against President Biden on June 27 and emphasized Trump's First Amendment rights and the rights of his supporters.

However, Manhattan prosecutor Matthew Colangelo, representing Bragg, sent a letter to Merchan opposing Trump's request. Colangelo argued that the court has an obligation to protect the integrity of the proceedings and the fair administration of justice. He stated that the court's orders were not solely based on the trial itself but also on preventing harm to the integrity of the proceedings and ensuring the orderly administration of the court.

Colangelo requested a briefing schedule, with Trump's motion due on June 13 and the People's response due by June 27. He stressed that their interests in maintaining the integrity of the proceedings have not diminished, emphasizing the importance of protecting the fairness of the trial, as well as the sentencing hearing and any post-trial motions.

During the trial, Trump's violation of the gag order resulted in a $10,000 fine and a warning from Merchan that further violations could lead to jail time, noting Trump's status as the former president and a potential future president.

Trump and his defense team have consistently argued that the gag order infringes upon his First Amendment rights and the rights of his supporters. However, prosecutors are determined to uphold the integrity of the trial and ensure the fair administration of justice.

Trump's sentencing is set for July 11, just four days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where he is expected to be formally nominated as the 2024 Republican presidential nominee.