Fact Check: Trump’s false claim about the judge not requiring a unanimous verdict

In a recent social media post, former President Donald Trump made a false claim regarding the requirements set by Judge Juan Merchan in his trial. Trump asserted that the judge was not requiring a unanimous decision on the charges against him, labeling the supposed position as “RIDICULOUS, UNCONSTITUTIONAL, AND UNAMERICAN.” This claim was echoed by conservatives following a statement from Fox News anchor John Roberts, who alleged that Judge Merchan had informed the jury that unanimity was not necessary for a conviction.

However, a fact check reveals that Trump’s claim is inaccurate. Judge Merchan explicitly stated in his instructions to the jury that a unanimous verdict is required on each of the 34 counts that Trump faces. While the jury must agree unanimously that Trump used unlawful means to promote or prevent the election of a candidate, they do not need to agree on the specific unlawful means employed. Prosecutors presented three theories of unlawful means, including violations of the Federal Election Campaign Act, falsification of business records, and violation of tax laws.

It is important to clarify the facts surrounding this claim to ensure an accurate understanding of the legal proceedings. Trump’s assertion that unanimity is not required in his case is not supported by Judge Merchan’s instructions to the jury.