Former United States President Donald Trump has generated significant controversy by comparing himself to Nelson Mandela amid his legal entanglements. Leading up to his trial in New York, Trump attacked Judge Juan Merchan, who is presiding over the case related to alleged hush money payments. Trump criticized an expanded gag order, restricting his communication regarding the trial, and dramatically stated he would become a “Modern Day Nelson Mandela” if imprisoned for speaking “the open and obvious TRUTH.”

Trump faces 34 felony counts in the present case, centered around accusations of falsifying business records. The trial is scheduled to begin on April 15th, and his legal team has unsuccessfully sought to delay the start date. This legal battle is one among several Trump is involved in, complicating his political landscape as he remains a leading figure in the Republican Party.

In addition to his public statements, Trump’s legal team has taken action against Judge Merchan, trying to pause the criminal trial set to address the hush money incidents. This case involves allegations that Trump falsified business records linked to payments arranged by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen. These payments were purportedly made to suppress stories about Trump’s extramarital affairs. Despite the legal maneuvers, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg refuted attempts to disqualify Judge Merchan, labeling them as unsubstantiated and dilatory.

As jury selection nears, Trump’s efforts to delay the trial underscore the legal challenges he faces, juxtaposed against his unyielding stance and controversial comparisons to historical figures.