On Tuesday, former US President Donald Trump is set to be arraigned in a Manhattan court on criminal charges. However, the proceedings will not be televised as per a ruling by Acting New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan.
The judge has allowed only five pool photographers and reporters inside the courtroom to cover the proceedings. He has also barred reporters from bringing laptops and other electronics into the room.
News organizations had requested that video cameras be allowed inside, but their plea was denied. The coalition of news outlets argued that allowing video coverage would not only serve the public interest but also prevent security concerns from arising.
However, Judge Merchan ruled that while there is unparalleled public interest in this case, there are competing interests at play that must be weighed. He added that never before in US history has a sitting or past president faced criminal charges.
President Trump will spend Monday night at his New York residence and show up for his 2:15 pm ET arraignment on Tuesday. It should be noted that he will not wear handcuffs nor have his mugshot taken.
Conclusion
As one of America's most controversial presidents faces criminal charges, many Americans are eagerly awaiting what happens next but won't get to witness it live via camera footage due to Judge Merchan's ruling.