The New York hush money trial of former U.S. president Donald Trump is well underway, with the selection of jurors and alternates taking place this week. The jury, consisting of seven men and five women, includes individuals from various professional backgrounds such as lawyers, educators, and healthcare workers. Despite some jurors expressing negative views about Trump in the past, they have all assured the court that they can set aside their personal opinions and judge the case fairly.

The trial, which marks the first criminal case against a former U.S. president, alleges that Trump schemed to hide hush money payments to two women to cover up their claims of extramarital affairs with him just before the 2016 election. Trump, who has denied the allegations and all 34 felony counts in the indictment, could face up to four years in prison if convicted.

The jury selection process has not been without its challenges, with some potential jurors being dismissed due to their inability to render an unbiased verdict. Trump's legal team has also raised objections, including concerns about a gag order limiting what Trump can publicly say about the case and potential witnesses. The judge is expected to hold a hearing on prosecutors' request to hold Trump in contempt for possible violations of the gag order.

As the trial progresses, Trump's dual role as a criminal defendant and political candidate in the upcoming election against President Joe Biden adds a layer of complexity to the proceedings. The trial is set to feature salacious testimony that could impact Trump's political future, with opening arguments expected to begin as early as Monday. Trump's lawyers have indicated that he may take the witness stand to defend himself, depending on the strength of the prosecutors' evidence.

Overall, the trial is a high-stakes legal battle that could have significant implications for Trump's political ambitions and legal standing. With multiple criminal indictments pending against him, including charges related to his 2020 election loss and handling of classified documents, the outcome of this trial could shape the trajectory of Trump's future in both the legal and political arenas.