Trump's attorney seeks permission for him to speak during closing arguments

• Former President Trump's request to participate in closing arguments denied.

• Media compromise allows limited access to courtroom.

• Trump's lawyers wanted to turn closing arguments into a campaign speech.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Trump campaigns in Reno

Reuters

Former President Donald Trump's civil fraud trial in New York reached a crucial stage today with the closing arguments underway. The courtroom proceedings started with a brief camera appearance - a compromise made between the media and Trump's legal team. Trump was seen seated between his attorneys as the cameras were quickly ushered out of the courtroom.

Interestingly, there was a discussion yesterday about whether Trump would participate in the closing arguments - a highly unusual move for a defendant. The judge had set some restrictions, urging Trump to focus on relevant facts and to refrain from attacking individuals or turning it into a campaign speech. However, negotiations between the parties failed, and the deadline passed without an agreement. Despite this, there are indications that Trump's team may attempt to raise the issue again during the closing arguments.

Inside the courtroom, a representative is transcribing the proceedings in real-time, providing updates to the press. It is noteworthy that a bomb threat was called into the judge's home earlier today, but the judge chose not to address it in court. Instead, he outlined the plan for the closing arguments and granted Trump's defense team until 12:45 to present their case.

At this moment, Trump's attorney, Christopher Kyes, is delivering the closing arguments. It remains to be seen if Kyes will bring up the question of whether Trump can personally address the court. The intertwining of legal and campaign narratives in this trial has become increasingly apparent. Trump himself made an impromptu appearance before heading into court, announcing that he intends to hold a press event later, blurring the lines between his legal proceedings and ongoing political activities.

As the trial unfolds, observers are keen to see how Trump's defense team will present their case and if they will seek any last-minute changes allowing the former president to personally speak during the closing arguments. The trial has highlighted the unique challenges of managing a legal battle intertwined with political messaging. The courtroom drama continues to intrigue as the case enters its final stages.