Chaotic Scene Outside NY Courthouse As Crowds, Media Await Trump Appearance

On Tuesday, ahead of former President Donald Trump’s arraignment in lower Manhattan, the streets of New York City bustled with activity. Trump supporters and counter-protesters huddled together outside the courthouse and, in some cases, clashed as journalists swarmed the area.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who is bringing the case against Trump, arrived at the courthouse while there was a heavy law enforcement presence and much of the area was cordoned off. The scene grew loud and chaotic, and two high-profile members of Congress, Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) and George Santos (R-NY), made public appearances but left quickly.

Despite the chaos outside the courthouse, Trump arrived at the courthouse with fanfare. He waved and raised a fist into the air before entering the building for the 2:15 p.m. EDT arraignment.

The former President has not been handcuffed, nor has a photo been taken, nor has he been placed in a cell before entering the courtroom. He faces 34 felony counts for alleged falsification of business records and is expected to plead not guilty. Trump has continued to post on Truth Social, taking aim at Bragg and the presiding judge.

After the arraignment, Trump may provide a statement to journalists in the hallway. Meanwhile, Bragg is scheduled to make a press conference at 3:30 p.m.

Trump announced that he will deliver a public address at his Mar-a-Lago resort on Tuesday night, hours after the arraignment.