The plane carrying Mr. Trump to New York (photo: CNN)
Reuters reported that Mr. Trump will appear in Manhattan court on April 4 (US time). Mr Trump is accused of paying $130,000 for the silence of adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Daniels claimed that she and Mr. Trump had an affair.
After a three-and-a-half-hour flight from Florida, Mr. Trump arrived in New York to the welcome of many supporters. New York authorities said they had erected barricades at the Manhattan District Court and Trump Tower. There are plans to deal with the scenario where the protesters become too violent.
In the familiar blue suit with red tie, Mr. Trump leisurely stepped off the private plane. He didn’t talk to the crowd of supporters and just waved to them. A convoy of cars escorted Trump to Trump Tower in Manhattan.
To strengthen the legal team, Mr. Trump has hired a well-known lawyer Todd Blanche. In a letter to the court, Mr. Trump’s legal team asked the judge not to allow filming, photography and live streaming of the former President’s work in court.
“That would further stress the already circus-like atmosphere surrounding the case,” the letter read.
Mr. Trump waves to supporters in New York (Image: CNN)
Supporters see off Trump in Florida (photo: CNN)
Before leaving Florida, Mr. Trump commented on social media: “The Witch Hunt. Our great country is on the brink.”
Mr. Trump is known for his exaggerated statements, according to Reuters.
Dozens of supporters saw Trump off at the Florida airport.
“America needs him. It will have nothing to do with Mr. Trump,” said Cindy Falco, 65, a Florida resident.
Some non-Trump supporters also expressed their displeasure with the Manhattan Attorney’s Office’s allegation.
“It’s ironic. Instead of accusing Mr. Trump of other wrongdoing, they are investigating the payment of an adult film actress,” Robert Hoatson, 71, a resident of New Jersey, said outside Trump Tower.
Police guard Trump Tower (photo: CNN)
Reporters surrounded Trump Tower (photo: CNN)
A person holds a pro-Trump flag in New York (photo: CNN)
On April 3, New York Mayor Eric Adams urged people to behave properly on April 4.
“Control yourself. New York City is our home, not a place for some people to express unnecessary anger. We do not allow violence or vandalism of any kind. If arrested, you are responsible, whoever you are. Be as polite as you can,” warned Mr. Adams.
Adams said he “trusts the New York Police Department” to do a good job on April 4.