Potential Jurors in the Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial Asked About Social Media

Sean "Diddy" Combs’ sweeping federal sex crimes trial is making daily headlines, but it’s one question posed to potential jurors that’s turning heads far beyond the courtroom: Have you ever posted about Diddy on social media?

As jury selection entered its second day on May 6, the usual battery of tough questions focused on jurors’ personal experiences with sexual assault, harassment, or domestic violence, USA Today reported. But buried in the list was a particularly modern inquiry: “Have you communicated to others, posted your opinion on social media or online, or 'liked' any social media posts about Mr. Combs? If so, when and where did you post or state your opinion?”

It’s a question tailor-made for today’s digital world—and one that underscores just how closely this case is intertwined with public opinion and viral media.

Related: Sean 'Diddy' Combs Judge Makes Decision as Trial Begins

The high-profile case, expected to stretch on for months, has kept lawyers busy vetting jurors one by one, with Judge Arun Subramanian aiming to find individuals capable of setting aside preconceived notions. While some potential jurors admitted to seeing the much-discussed video allegedly showing Combs assaulting his ex, Cassie Ventura Fine, others revealed their news habits spanned everywhere from The New York Times to YouTube.

The social media question stood out because it touches on a very real concern in cases involving celebrities: the line between passive consumption and active participation in public discourse. In an era when a single tweet or Instagram like can reveal bias, or at least open the door to claims of bias, it’s no surprise both the prosecution and defense want to know exactly how plugged-in their jurors are.

By the end of the day’s proceedings, 39 prospective jurors had been questioned, with 16 advancing to the next round. As the search for an impartial panel continues, the courtroom is not just grappling with potential jurors’ personal histories, but also their digital footprints.

In a trial where celebrity, crime, and the internet collide, even a “like” could make all the difference.