Former President Donald Trump has come under scrutiny for falsely claiming that Judge Juan Merchan barred him from attending his youngest son Barron's high school graduation. Despite the alleged prohibition, court records indicate that the judge has not prevented Trump from attending the event. The false accusation and subsequent promotion by Trump's supporters have sparked controversy and misinformation.

Following the first day of jury selection for Trump's criminal trial, the former president stated to reporters outside the court that Judge Merchan would not permit him to attend his son's graduation. Trump reiterated this claim on social media, asserting that the judge had "prohibited [him] from attending" Barron's graduation ceremony.

However, when asked about excusing Trump from court to attend the event, Judge Merchan responded that it was still premature to make a ruling. He clarified that while he had not prevented Trump from attending his son's graduation, the decision would depend on the trial's progression. The judge did, however, restrict Trump from skipping trial dates to attend oral arguments on the former president's plea for broad presidential immunity from criminal prosecution.

Despite the judge's clarification, Trump's attorney, Alina Habba, echoed the false claim of Merchan barring Trump from attending the graduation ceremony during an appearance on Fox News. Additionally, right-wing media figures, including Trump's sons Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., spread the unfounded accusation, labeling Merchan as "heartless" and "pure evil." Conspiracy theorists and media influencers also amplified the claim.

Judge Merchan, however, made no threat to arrest Trump if he attended Barron's graduation. The only warning issued was the Parker Warning, informing Trump of the potential consequences of disruptive behavior or failure to appear without the judge's authorization.

Furthermore, Trump has been the subject of a gag order, implemented by Judge Merchan, preventing him from attacking witnesses, prosecutors, court staff, and jurors involved in the case. Trump has complained about the order, expressing a desire to respond to his critics. However, his claims of being silenced appear to contradict his ongoing public statements and social media activity.

While Trump's false accusations surrounding his son's graduation may have stirred up controversy and misinformation, court records indicate that Judge Juan Merchan did not bar the former president from attending the event. As Trump's criminal trial progresses, the focus remains on the charges against him and the many legal intricacies surrounding the case.