Former President Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York is set to resume on Friday, with his former attorney Michael Cohen expected to testify on Monday. This week’s testimony has focused on allegations of a sexual encounter between Trump and adult film star Stormy Daniels, as well as financial details surrounding the case. Trump’s defense has accused Daniels of fabricating details of the encounter, while prosecutors have presented evidence of Trump’s involvement in the payment made to Daniels before the 2016 presidential election.
On Thursday, the courtroom saw a heated exchange between prosecutors and Trump’s lawyers, as Daniels took the stand for a second day. She stood by her account of the alleged 2006 sexual encounter with Trump, despite attempts by the defense to discredit her testimony. The prosecution introduced graphic descriptions of the encounter and details about the hotel suite where it allegedly took place. Trump’s lawyers also accused Daniels of using the story for personal gain, which she denied.
In addition to Daniels’ testimony, prosecutors called a Trump Organization bookkeeper and a former White House executive assistant to present evidence showing how Trump signed checks related to reimbursements to Cohen for the payment to Daniels. This testimony aimed to establish Trump’s direct involvement in the financial transactions at the center of the case. Trump has been charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in relation to these payments, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
The trial has also shed light on how Trump managed his finances while in office, with evidence showing that he personally signed checks sent by Trump Organization staff to the White House during his presidency. This information raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the extent of Trump’s involvement in his businesses while serving as president. The prosecution has not yet revealed who they plan to call as witnesses following the conclusion of former White House aide Madeleine Westerhout’s testimony.
As the trial continues, all eyes are on Michael Cohen, who is expected to testify about his role in the payment to Daniels and his interactions with Trump. Cohen’s testimony could provide crucial insights into Trump’s knowledge and involvement in the financial transactions under scrutiny. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for Trump’s legal standing and political future, as he faces mounting legal challenges and scrutiny over his business dealings.
