Trump insists he wasn't sleeping in court, just closed his 'beautiful blue eyes'

Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends his trial for allegedly covering up hush money payments at Manhattan Criminal Court on May 2, 2024 in New York City. (Doug Mills-Pool/Getty Images)

Former President Donald Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Thursday that — despite reports from "FAKE NEWS MEDIA" that he fell asleep in court — he was simply closing his "beautiful blue eyes" briefly.

"Contrary to the FAKE NEWS MEDIA, I don’t fall asleep during the Crooked D.A.’s Witch Hunt, especially not today. I simply close my beautiful blue eyes, sometimes, listen intensely, and take it ALL in!!!" Trump stated in a post.

The trial of N.Y. v. Trump resumed Thursday afternoon after a short break. Keith Davidson, attorney for adult film actress Stormy Daniels, took the witness stand again for cross-examination from defense attorney Emil Bove.

Before Davidson took the stand again, defense attorney Susan Necheles asked for a stack of articles that Trump wishes to post on Truth Social to be reviewed for gag order violations because they discuss the case. She asked review to avoid any ambiguity.

Manhattan attorney Matthew Colangelo said he needed to review the articles, adding that he understands there is a political campaign, but there is also a criminal trial.

But Judge Juan Merchan said he would not give an advance rulings on the articles, adding that there is no ambiguity in the gag order.  He told the defense team that if there is doubt to “steer clear.”  

When Necheles tried to bring up another point, Merchan cut her off, saying, “I’m not going to argue with you.”