Merchan donated $35 (that we know of) to a pro-Biden, anti-Trump political operation, including funds that the Judge earmarked for ‘resisting the Republican Party and Donald Trump’s radical right-wing legacy.’
That would be a violation of New York’s Code of Judicial Conduct.
(1) Neither a sitting judge nor a candidate for public election to judicial office shall directly or indirectly engage in any political activity except (i) as otherwise authorized by this section or by law, (ii) to vote and to identify himself or herself as a member of a political party, and (iii) on behalf of measures to improve the law, the legal system or the administration of justice. Prohibited political activity shall include: …
(h) soliciting funds for, paying an assessment to, or making a contribution to a political organization or candidate ...
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It’s notable in that Merchan donated to a STOP Trump organization.
Thats dam clear and requires recusal.
If it had only been donating to his opponent, he could claim the opponent is not involved in the case. Here, he donates to Stop Trump and then advises the Jury to do as he does in his private life.