The judge overseeing former President Donald Trump's hush money case in New York has approved a questionnaire for jury selection and instructions for prospective jurors in the trial, which is set to begin next week.

In a letter Monday, state Judge Juan Merchan provided attorneys in the case with a jury questionnaire that consists of 42 numbered questions on a range of topics. The form does not ask about party affiliation, political contributions, or voting history.

"Such questions are irrelevant because they do not go to the issue of the prospective juror’s qualifications," Merchan wrote. "The ultimate issue is whether the prospective juror can ensure us that they will set aside any personal feelings or biases and render a decision that is based on the evidence and the law."

Key Takeaways

1. Judge Merchan approved a questionnaire for jury selection in Donald Trump's hush money case, which includes questions about jurors' backgrounds and potential biases.

2. The questionnaire does not ask about political affiliation, but it does inquire about jurors' media consumption, personal beliefs, and connections to Trump or the Trump Organization.

Brief Context

Judge Merchan's approval of the jury questionnaire and instructions provides insight into the upcoming trial's jury selection process. The questionnaire aims to ensure that jurors can render an impartial verdict based on the evidence presented.