In an interview with Fox News Digital, Senator Tim Scott expressed his outrage over a New York judge's ruling to impose fines on former President Donald Trump for violating a gag order. The senator described the decision as "disgusting" and an infringement on Trump's First Amendment rights.

Judge Juan Merchan, presiding over the New York v. Trump trial in Manhattan, imposed nine fines of $1,000 each, totaling $9,000, for Trump's posts that violated the gag order. This order prohibits the former president from discussing witnesses and family members of court officials publicly.

Scott echoed Trump's defense, arguing that the gag order violated his First Amendment rights. He further criticized the court system in New York, accusing it of targeting Republicans and defending Democrats. The senator warned that this case was not just about Trump but could set a dangerous precedent impacting the freedom of speech of ordinary Americans as well.

Highlighting Trump's resilience under pressure, Scott stated that the former president was "hardwired for the stress and pressure" resulting from a "two-tiered justice system." He emphasized the importance of individuals having the ability and right to discuss the challenges they face, even in a place where majority opinions differ from their own.

Scott also voiced his concern that the enforcement of the gag order and fines were a means to influence the outcome of the 2024 presidential elections, echoing Trump's claim that these court proceedings were a form of electoral interference.

The Trump campaign referred to a post on Truth Social, a platform created by the former president, in which Trump called the gag order a violation of his constitutional right to free speech. He claimed to be the first presidential candidate in history to be "gagged" and accused the judge of rigging the 2024 presidential election.

The article also mentioned that Senator Scott has been named as a potential running mate for Trump in the upcoming election against President Joe Biden. The senator's strong advocacy for Trump has been recognized by the former president, who believes Scott would be an excellent choice for his vice president.

Additionally, it was reported that Trump is hosting a major donor retreat in Palm Beach, Florida, with several high-profile Republicans attending, including Senator Scott, Senator Marco Rubio, Senator JD Vance, Governor Doug Burgum, Governor Kristi Noem, Representative Elise Stefanik, and Representative Byron Donalds.

Fox News Digital reached out to the New York state court system for comment on the matter.