(NewsNation) — The first criminal trial involving a former U.S. president began on April 15 in New York. The hush money case against Donald Trump kicked off with the former president's close friends and relatives staying away in the first several days of the trial. But a rush of supporters ended up pouring in for Trump, with some sitting in the courtroom and others speaking to reporters after proceedings.
The former president faces 34 felony counts in the case where he stands accused of falsifying business records related to a payment to adult film actor Stormy Daniels, who alleged having a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006.
Here’s a look some of those who have, and have not, attended Trump's hush money trial.
Which Trump relatives attended hush money trial?
Eric Trump was the first of Trump’s children to be seen in court. He’s been a regular fixture in the seats behind the defense table. He’s also blasted coverage of the trial on social media.
Here are some of the famous names on Trump’s ‘close contacts’ listLara Trump, Eric’s wife and the new chair of the Republican National Committee, attended the trial May 14.
Donald Trump Jr.’s only appearance so far was on May 21. He spoke out about the trial in front of the courthouse, calling the proceedings “insane” and “nonsense.”
Trump’s wife Melania and daughter Ivanka have not attended the trial. Nor has Ivanka’s husband, Jared Kushner. Legal experts say defendants typically have family members present at their trial.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 21: Donald Trump Jr. speaks during a press conference while on a break from former U.S. President Donald Trump's hush money trial outside Manhattan Criminal Court on May 21, 2024 in New York City. The defense has rested their case in former President Trump's hush money trial in which he declined to testify in. Judge Juan Merchan says to expect summations and closing arguments in the criminal trial........