Former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker is currently testifying in Donald Trump’s New York criminal trial for the third day. The trial is not being televised due to New York law prohibiting the recording of criminal proceedings. Pecker, who was the chief executive of the Enquirer’s parent company until 2020, has been describing his efforts to use the tabloid to bury negative stories about Trump and attack his rivals during the 2016 presidential campaign. CBS News is providing live updates of the trial.
The trial is expected to resume at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, with Pecker’s testimony likely to continue throughout the day. This coincides with another significant legal development for Trump, as the Supreme Court in Washington is hearing arguments on whether he should be immune from federal prosecution in a case brought by special counsel Jack Smith. The judge overseeing the trial denied Trump’s request to attend the arguments in the capital, highlighting the ongoing legal challenges faced by the former president.
Pecker’s testimony sheds light on the behind-the-scenes efforts to manipulate media coverage in favor of Trump during the 2016 campaign. His role in using the National Enquirer to suppress negative stories about Trump and target his opponents underscores the influence of tabloid journalism in shaping public perception. The trial provides a glimpse into the tactics employed by powerful individuals to control the narrative and sway public opinion.
Despite the lack of televised coverage, CBS News has reporters in the courtroom and nearby overflow room to provide updates on the trial proceedings. Pecker’s testimony is a key component of the case against Trump in New York, as prosecutors seek to hold him accountable for alleged financial crimes. The trial represents a critical moment in the legal challenges facing Trump and his associates, as they navigate multiple investigations and court battles.
As Pecker continues his testimony on Thursday, the trial offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the tabloid industry and its connections to powerful figures like Trump. The ongoing legal proceedings underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in the media landscape, as journalists and prosecutors seek to uncover the truth behind the headlines. Pecker’s revelations could have far-reaching implications for Trump and his allies, as they face mounting legal scrutiny and public scrutiny over their actions.
