Opening statements are set to begin in former President Trump’s criminal trial in New York, where prosecutors will allege that Trump falsified business records to cover up a “hush money” payment during his 2016 campaign. Defense attorneys are expected to argue that Trump has been charged on flimsy evidence from an untrustworthy witness, his former lawyer Michael Cohen. The case dates back to October 2016, when Cohen paid $130,000 to adult film star Stormy Daniels to buy her silence about an alleged sexual encounter, which prosecutors say Trump reimbursed Cohen for. Trump has entered a not guilty plea and denies the allegations, calling the case a “witch hunt” and “election interference.”
Trump showed his anger about the case as the trial began with jury selection, lashing out at Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg in public appearances and on social media. Inside the courtroom, he appeared reserved, speaking rarely and even appearing to nod off at times. A panel of jurors, the first in U.S. history to judge a former president in a criminal case, was selected after narrowing down from 192 potential jurors to a dozen, plus six alternates. After opening statements, prosecutors are expected to call David Pecker, the former publisher of the National Enquirer, as their first witness. Pecker is expected to testify about a “catch and kill” scheme orchestrated by himself, Cohen, and Trump.
The trial has been a long time coming, with the incident involving Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen occurring just days before the 2016 election. Prosecutors allege that Trump and Cohen engaged in a scheme to conceal the “hush money” payment through falsified business records. Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence and claiming that the charges against him are unfounded. The trial is likely to delve into the details of the payment, the relationship between Trump and Cohen, and the alleged cover-up orchestrated by the former president and his associates.
The involvement of a former president in a criminal trial is unprecedented in U.S. history, adding a level of scrutiny and attention to the proceedings. Trump’s actions and statements leading up to the trial have generated controversy and public debate, with many questioning the validity of the charges and the motivations behind them. The trial is expected to be closely watched by the public, the media, and legal experts, as it sets a precedent for how former presidents are held accountable for their actions after leaving office.
As the trial progresses, the prosecution and defense will present their cases to the jury, with witnesses providing testimony and evidence to support their arguments. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for Trump, Cohen, and others involved in the case. The trial is likely to be a major moment in Trump’s post-presidential legacy, shaping public perception of his actions and decisions while in office and after leaving the White House. Overall, the trial is a critical juncture in the ongoing saga surrounding Trump’s presidency and the legal challenges he faces.
