Washington Post court reporter Shayna Jacobs gives insights into Trump's 'hush money' trial in New York. The prosecution's case, Michael Cohen's testimony, and David Pecker's 'catch-and-kill' scheme are discussed. Trump's behavior in court and the gag order are scrutinized.
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Quick takeaways
First U.S. ex-president facing criminal trial for alleged hush money payments to Stormy Daniels.
Prosecution focuses on proving Trump's intent in cover-up while defense challenges witness credibility and payment categorization.
Deep dives
Allegations Against Donald Trump in Manhattan Trial
Former US President Donald Trump is facing criminal charges for allegedly improperly disclosing payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign. The trial marks the first time in American history that a former president is facing criminal charges. The allegations focus on hush money paid to keep quiet about an alleged affair, with Trump pleading not guilty and denouncing it as a witch hunt. The trial unfolds with intense media scrutiny and a high-pressure atmosphere.
Prosecution's Strategies and Witnesses
The prosecution's case relies on establishing a pattern of behavior by Trump, including covering up negative stories related to women. Key witness Michael Cohen implicates Trump in directing payments to Stormy Daniels and orchestrating a cover-up. The prosecution aims to show intent on Trump's part and build credibility around Cohen's testimony, despite potential credibility issues. Additional witnesses like Karen McDougal are expected to corroborate the prosecution's narrative.
Defense Argument and Courtroom Dynamics
Trump's defense team challenges the credibility of witnesses like Cohen, portraying him as unreliable and politically motivated. They contest the prosecution's claim that payments to Daniels were campaign expenses, emphasizing personal matters. The defense aims to discredit Cohen and refute allegations about Trump's involvement in silencing negative press. Meanwhile, the courtroom tension escalates as Trump reacts to testimony and faces restrictions under a gag order designed to prevent outbursts targeting individuals involved in the case.
Donald Trump's first of four criminal trials is underway in New York, where he is accused of improperly disclosing money supposedly paid to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016 to cover up an alleged affair. It's the first time a former U.S. president has been tried criminally.
Washington Post court reporter Shayna Jacobs has been covering the trial. She walks us through what the court has heard in the opening week, what to expect as the prosecution builds its case, and how the defense plans to counter it.
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