Michael Cohen, once a loyal ally to former President Donald Trump, has now turned on him by testifying in the hush money trial involving Stormy Daniels. Cohen, Trump’s former personal lawyer and fixer, is set to reveal details about the $130,000 payment made to Daniels just before the 2016 presidential election. This payment was in exchange for her silence about an alleged affair she had with Trump a decade earlier. Trump’s reimbursement of Cohen for this payment, while he was in office, forms the crux of the Manhattan District Attorney’s case against him.
The Manhattan District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, alleges that Trump falsified business records by categorizing the Daniels payment as a legal expense. This was done to conceal the fact that the hush money was aimed at protecting Trump’s candidacy during a crucial period. Despite Trump’s denials of the affair and the allegations, he faces felony charges in this trial.
As Cohen began his testimony in Manhattan Supreme Court, Trump sat with his eyes closed, seemingly uninterested. Cohen, who previously claimed blind loyalty to Trump, is expected to testify for several days. Assistant District Attorney Susan Hoffinger, who has been preparing Cohen for his testimony, will question him first. Cohen, involved in other hush money payments, is likely to face scrutiny over his past lies and criminal guilty plea, especially in relation to the Stormy Daniels payment.
After the initial questioning, Trump’s defense lawyer Todd Blanche will cross-examine Cohen. Blanche plans to focus on Cohen’s history of lying and his criminal convictions. Blanche has labeled Cohen as a convicted felon and perjurer, highlighting his credibility issues. Despite efforts to impose a gag order on Cohen, the judge did not comply but advised him to refrain from making public statements about the case or Trump.
The unfolding trial of Trump’s involvement in hush money payments to cover up alleged affairs is a pivotal moment in his legal battles. Cohen’s testimony will shed light on the inner workings of the Trump Organization and its dealings. As the trial progresses, more revelations are expected, and the outcome could have significant implications for both Trump and his political future. Stay updated for the latest developments in this ongoing case.
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