Trump Lawyers Seek Recusal of Judge in Hush Money Trial

Lawyers for former President Donald Trump have urged the judge overseeing his criminal trial to step aside, citing a potential conflict of interest due to his daughter's work for Kamala Harris. The judge has previously denied similar requests. Trump, convicted of falsifying records tied to hush money payments, plans to appeal.

Attorneys for Donald Trump have once again requested that the judge presiding over the ex-president's criminal trial recuse himself. Their appeal points to the judge's daughter's employment, which they argue might pose a conflict of interest due to her work with Democratic figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris.

Justice Juan Merchan has previously turned down recusal requests from Trump's legal team, stating they lack sufficient grounds. Trump's lawyers emphasized the political consultation entity where Merchan's daughter works is involved in Democratic campaigns, potentially raising impartiality concerns.

The firm, Authentic, has yet to comment. Merchan has consistently denied any bias, supported by an ethics panel finding in 2023. Trump's conviction for falsifying business records linked to a $130,000 payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election remains contentious, with Trump seeking an appeal after his sentencing.

(With inputs from agencies.)