Shortly before the historic trial of former US President Donald Trump began, his already ardent fans and outraged protesters who had gathered early outside the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse clashed, giving a “taste” of the already tense atmosphere. .

In particular, shortly before 9.30 am, a Trump supporter tried to tear down a banner held by angry protesters, resulting in tension.

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TRIAL

“You’re on the wrong side!” the crowd began to shout at her, grabbing the flag that the woman was furiously trying to tear.

Another Trump supporter was heard shouting: “Get out of here, you old bag of bones!”

Deputy George Santos also made a surprise appearance in court with the woman who caused the incident running to greet him warmly.

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Trump requests a change of location for the trial

Donald Trump is expected to depart Trump Tower for court at 10.30am. today (local time), flanked by a huge motorcade. Earlier today, he requested that his trial be held in Staten Island rather than Manhattan. In a post on his website, Truth Social, Trump called it “very unfair” that he would be brought to Manhattan “where certain areas voted 1% Republican” and suggested the case be moved to neighboring Staten Island, a “very fair and safe location’ that is more friendly to the Republican Party. He also launched a scathing attack on the “judge and his family” who “hate Trump”, commenting that his daughter worked on the campaign of current Vice President Kamala Harris. “A mock trial,” the post concludes.

Earlier, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg was seen quietly arriving at his office earlier.

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New York authorities have taken strict measures to prevent any incidents after the court decision with over 35,000 police officers on alert. Yesterday the mayor of New York, Eric Adams, asked the crowd to be on their “best behavior”.