In a dramatic turn of events, prosecutors in New York have asked the judge to sanction former U.S. President Donald Trump for violating a gag order in his hush money trial. This marks the first time a former president has faced a criminal trial in the United States.

During a hearing at Manhattan Supreme Court, Assistant District Attorney Chris Conroy argued that Trump had repeatedly commented on likely witnesses in multiple social media posts, violating the court's supervision. Specifically, Conroy pointed out three recent posts that mentioned Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, and porn star Stormy Daniels, whose $130,000 payment from Cohen is at the center of the case.

The prosecution has requested a $1,000 sanction for each of the three posts and urged the judge, Juan Merchan, to order Trump to remove them. Additionally, they have called for a warning to Trump that any further violations could lead to jail time. Judge Merchan has agreed to hold a hearing on the matter on April 24.

As the trial progresses, the request for sanctions comes on the same day as the commencement of jury selection for the historic criminal trial. The potential jurors, who will play a crucial role in determining Trump's fate, were observed intently studying the former president as Judge Merchan explained the details of the case to them.

Trump, who is also the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, is required to be present in court throughout the trial, including during the jury selection process. The trial itself is anticipated to last for at least six weeks, potentially interfering with Trump's ability to campaign against President Joe Biden in their expected rematch of the 2020 election.

In response to the allegations, Trump labeled the trial as "political persecution," proclaiming his pride in being present and stating that it is an "assault on America." Trump's legal team had attempted several times to delay the start of the trial, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

Prior to the hearing, Trump had requested that Judge Merchan recuse himself from the case due to an alleged conflict stemming from the judge's daughter's involvement with a digital fundraising and advertising firm. However, the judge rejected Trump's claim, asserting that it would not impact his ability to preside over the trial.

It remains to be seen how this unprecedented trial will unfold and the impact it could have on Trump's political ambitions. With three other criminal cases looming, including charges related to his attempt to overturn the 2020 election results, the hush money trial in New York is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in Trump's legal battles.

As this story develops, it is crucial to stay tuned for further updates regarding the trial and its potential implications for both Trump and the political landscape.