But the fight over misdemeanor “bookkeeping” counts that Bragg now has alleged are felonies against Trump continues to be in the headlines, largely because of Merchan’s extraordinary behavior. It is one of multiple lawfare cases brought by Democrats against Trump in an apparent scheme to derail his 2024 presidential race.

Merchan’s behavior was cited by legal expert and longtime commentator Alan Dershowitz after Merchan openly feuded with a witness, ordered the courtroom cleared, and essentially blew his stack during the proceedings.