The hush money trial of former President Donald Trump, concerning payments to Stormy Daniels and allegations of falsifying company records, has commenced in Manhattan.

The trial features a jury of twelve and six alternates, overseen by Judge Juan M. Merchan, with Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg leading the prosecution and a defense team including Todd Blanche, Susan Necheles, and Emil Bove.

This trial marks the first criminal proceeding against a former U.S. president, with its progress potentially affected by a Supreme Court case on Trump's federal election interference claim.

Separate from the trial, Trump's recent campaign event was canceled due to inclement weather, while the current administration increases their campaign visibility.

In related political news, a GOP operative's conviction for illegal Russian contributions to Trump's campaign was upheld, and diplomatic relations between China and Canada are strained as the Chinese ambassador to Canada departs.