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Former US President Donald Trump is set to face trial next month on charges of participating in a hush-money scheme. At a court hearing in New York, Trump attempted to have the trial dismissed or postponed, but Judge Juan Merchan denied the request. Trump expressed his frustration with the trial's timing, as it coincides with his campaign for re-election. The trial is expected to begin on March 25th. Trump's defense argued for the trial's delay, but the judge determined that there were no legal grounds to do so. The Manhattan District Attorney has charged Trump with 34 counts of fraud, alleging that he used false business records to conceal payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Trump denies any wrongdoing and has stated that he and Daniels never had an affair. This trial is one of four criminal cases that Trump is currently facing. The initial stage of the trial will involve the selection of a 12-person jury. Considering Trump's international fame and the divisive nature of his presidency, the court and attorneys discussed the challenges of selecting impartial jurors. While both sides have the ability to dismiss potential jurors, Justice Merchan warned against removing jurors based solely on their political affiliations. Prosecutors intend to include questions in the screening questionnaire about controversial topics surrounding the 2020 presidential election, including beliefs in election fraud or membership in extreme political groups. The defense proposed asking potential jurors about their political activities and media consumption. Additionally, the identity of the prosecution's key witness, former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, and whether potential jurors have read Trump's book, "The Art of the Deal," may also be addressed during jury selection.