Washington Post reporter Devlin Barrett and senior video journalist JM Rieger delve into Trump's New York trial, discussing witness testimonies, Trump's repetitive false statements, and the complexities of the legal battle, including potential consequences of violating a gag order and exploring the legalities surrounding ex-presidents' accountability.
David Pecker's testimony reveals catch-and-kill practices in tabloid journalism linking Trump to alleged crimes.
Supreme Court debates presidential immunity's impact on legal battles and accountability, showing concern for defining official acts.
Deep dives
Exposing Trump's Legal Battles
Former President Trump is facing trials related to his actions while in office, with the Supreme Court considering his argument for immunity from prosecution. Simultaneously, a criminal case in New York involves 34 counts against Trump for falsifying business records, including hush money paid to an adult film actress. Witnesses like David Pecker reveal the inner workings of tabloid journalism and alleged schemes between Trump and associates. The trial highlights the dynamics of relationships and shady practices in media.
Key Testimony from Witness David Pecker
David Pecker's testimony in Trump's criminal case sheds light on catch-and-kill stories, a practice where negative stories about Trump were suppressed. Pecker's close ties and insights into the tabloid world serve as a guide for jurors in understanding the alleged crimes. Pecker's role as a witness provides both evidence against Trump and clarifies how tabloid journalism functions. His testimony unveils the intricate relationships and strategies employed in molding public perceptions.
Implications of Starting with David Pecker
Pecker's testimony directly links Trump to criminal acts and campaign efforts, emphasizing Trump's awareness and involvement. Starting with Pecker strengthens the case against Trump, showcasing a pattern of catch-and-kill practices not limited to the Trump campaign. His revelations about similar actions with others add to the prosecution's narrative, indicating a consistent use of such strategies. The choice to lead with Pecker creates a significant nexus between Trump and the alleged crimes, setting a foundation for the trial.
Challenges Surrounding Presidential Immunity
The podcast explores the Supreme Court's role in determining whether former presidents, like Trump, can claim blanket immunity from prosecution for actions undertaken while in office. Justices express skepticism towards an absolute immunity ruling, discussing complexities in defining official acts and potential impact on presidential duties. Liberal justices fear setting a harmful precedent, while conservative justices highlight concerns regarding curbing a president's focus on essential tasks. The unresolved debate poses significant implications for Trump's legal battles and the broader scope of presidential accountability.
In this week's episode, the crew discusses what's happened in former president Donald Trump's New York trial so far – and what we're hearing from witnesses.
Washington Post reporter Devlin Barrett returns to take us inside the courtroom, while senior video journalist JM Rieger analyzes Trump's repetitive, falsehood-filled statements outside the courtroom.