Some highlights once I give the story an update. In the meanwhile, give the order inside the story a read.
Earlier this morning, Trump's lawyers argued that the civil probe was essentially a way to extract information without having to offer immunity that a grand jury would afford in a criminal investigation.
Engoron: "This argument completely misses the mark."
Engoron:
Trump and his children have the "absolute right" to assert Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination.
Eric Trump did it more than 500 times, he notes.
Justice Engoron:
Trump was "hardly a stranger" to the NYAG's office when Tish James took over.
Her predecessors reached significant settlements with Trump's "University" and "Foundation," the judge says—his scare quotes.
Engoron:
The thousands of documents responsive to the subpoenas that I've viewed privately show "significant basis" for continuing the investigation, undercutting notion that it's based on animus rather than facts and law.
Engoron:
"As has often been said, that a prosecutor dislikes someone does not prevent a prosecution."
Engoron:
It would have been "blatant dereliction of duty" not to investigate and issue subpoenas.
Engoron:
Trump's spin on Mazars ditching him is Orwellian, "audacious" and "preposterous."
Engoron:
NYAG found "copious evidence of possible financial fraud."
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McConnell: "Evidence shows that people will go hungry, food pantries will be overburdened, and needless suffering will occur. That's what irreparable harm means."
McConnell:
"Last weekend, SNAP benefits lapsed for the first time in our nation's history. This is a problem that could have and should have been avoided."
That's what Judge Illston said in court last time before blocking shutdown-related mass layoffs. A follow-up hearing to extend that order is about to begin.
Check out this video for background
"All rise. Court is now in session."
Judge Illston enters the courtroom.
Judge Illston thanks those in the courtroom for working during the government shutdown.
"For many of you, I understand that it's work that's unpaid at this time."
A hearing has begun over the enforcement of a federal judge's order protecting journalists, protesters and clergy from attacks by ICE agents.
Listening live.
Judge Ellis specifying the type of testimony that she wants to hear on Monday:
"I want somebody with knowledge from ICE and somebody with knowledge from Customs and Border Patrol."
The plaintiff's attorney wants Judge Ellis to order someone within the chain of command of Operation Midway Blitz.
Judge Ellis: "I hear you. ... I at my fingertips can't tell you who's in the chain of command, who has the most knowledge and who is the best witness."