The selection of jurors in Donald Trump’s hush money trial has raised questions about their impartiality, given the recent spending of Trump’s campaign funds at his own properties. As of Tuesday, April 16, seven jurors have been chosen to serve on the jury in the trial.
Trump’s main 2024 White House campaign fundraising operation has significantly increased spending at his properties in recent months, including his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, and Trump National Doral Miami. The campaign has written multiple checks totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars to these properties, raising ethical concerns about a candidate generating personal revenue while running for office.
The money spent at Trump’s businesses could potentially benefit him as he faces financial challenges, including large court-ordered financial judgments from civil lawsuits. Despite these legal costs, Trump’s campaign has continued to spend millions at his businesses, including on air travel and events at his properties.
Campaign finance experts believe that while the practice of spending campaign funds at a candidate’s businesses is legal, it raises concerns about conflicts of interest and the motives of elected officials. Trump’s use of campaign funds at his properties has been a recurring issue since his 2016 election, with critics questioning whether the spending benefits his personal interests.
The selection of jurors in Trump’s hush money trial comes at a time when his campaign spending at his properties is under scrutiny. The trial, which involves alleged payments to an adult film star during the 2016 presidential campaign, has drawn attention to the ethical implications of using campaign funds for personal gain. As the trial continues, the impartiality of the jurors will be closely watched to ensure a fair and just outcome.