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In what can be likened to the suspenseful unfolding of a courtroom drama on prime-time television, the Bankman trial kicked off in Manhattan's courtroom on Tuesday. It's a case that has the city's denizens and keen-eyed Law360 reporters, alike, clinging to every word, every action.

By midday, a diverse ensemble of 50 potential jurors had begun to fill the courtroom, echoing the shuffling of poker chips in a high-stakes game. Judge Kaplan, acting as the dealer, began to layout the charges against Bankman-Fried, setting the stage for a six-week legal showdown.

The judge's initial line of inquiry was akin to probing for cracks in a dam, searching for any hint of bias or potential compromise. An astonishing 22 out of the initial 50, almost half, were excused either due to personal commitments or perceived biases. The details ranged from professional conflicts to prior knowledge about the case. One juror, for example, made headlines for admitting to being influenced by a popular Joe Rogan podcast. Another revealed financial wounds inflicted by investments in FTX and Alameda.

But as the clock struck 12:20 p.m., the courthouse took a much-needed breather, signaling an hour-long lunch recess.

Bankman Trial Gets Underway : Morning's Opening Acts Revealed

Earlier in the day, the top floor of 500 Pearl Street buzzed with anticipation. The charges against Bankman-Fried are no small matter: allegations of a nefarious plot to reroute billions from FTX to Alameda Research, all while indulging in opulent purchases and political back-handers.

Yet, adding to the day's electricity was the unexpected overlap of another high-profile case, with none other than former President Donald Trump in attendance for his own legal predicament. This dual spectacle resulted in a notable delay and an overwhelming security presence.

Bankman-Fried, noticeably different with his newly trimmed hair and diminished physique, was brought forth from Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center. In an intriguing move, Judge Kaplan ensured Bankman-Fried was acutely aware of his right to self-testimony, irrespective of any counsel from his defense team.

However, in a final act of defiance for the morning's proceedings, lead prosecutor Nicolas Roos revealed that Bankman-Fried's camp had brushed aside any hint of plea bargains from the very onset.

As the afternoon beckoned, the focus shifted back to jury selection, leaving the courtroom abuzz with whispers, theories, and anticipations of what's to come in the Bankman trial.