The hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump is nearing its conclusion, with prosecutors calling their final witness, former Trump attorney Michael Cohen, back to the stand for further questioning. Cohen’s testimony directly linked Trump to the alleged hush money scheme, which prosecutors claim involved falsifying business records to cover up payments to porn actor Stormy Daniels. Trump has pleaded not guilty to the 34 felony counts he faces.
The trial has delved into details of the payments made to Cohen, which were recorded as legal expenses but allegedly were reimbursements for the hush money payment to Daniels. Defense lawyers have attempted to portray Cohen as a serial liar out for revenge against Trump, given his past history of lies and criminal behavior. The jury could begin deliberations this week to determine Trump’s guilt or innocence in this landmark trial, marking the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office is expected to rest its case once Cohen finishes his testimony, but may call rebuttal witnesses if Trump’s defense presents their own witnesses. The defense team has not decided whether Trump will testify, as putting the client on the witness stand can be risky. Cohen, despite facing intense questioning from the defense, has remained composed on the stand and detailed Trump’s involvement in the hush money scheme.
Cohen testified about meetings and conversations with Trump regarding the payments to Daniels, emphasizing Trump’s direct involvement in the scheme. Defense attorney Todd Blanche accused Cohen of lying about certain details, including a phone call with Trump’s bodyguard, but Cohen maintained his position. Trump’s lawyers may call an expert to refute the prosecution’s claims about campaign finance violations in the hush money payments, although there are limitations on what the expert can address in court.
The trial has been filled with revelations about Trump’s involvement in the alleged scheme, along with scrutiny of Cohen’s past actions and credibility as a witness. The defense team has attempted to undermine Cohen’s testimony by highlighting his past lies and criminal history. As the trial heads towards closing arguments, the jury will ultimately decide Trump’s fate in this high-profile case. Stay tuned for updates as the trial unfolds in New York City.
