The cross-examination of Michael D. Cohen, former lawyer and fixer for Donald J. Trump, resumes this morning in New York. Cohen's testimony is critical in the prosecution's case against Trump in the ongoing criminal trial. The trial, which began on April 15, 2024, is expected to conclude before Memorial Day weekend.
Cohen testified that Trump directed him to pay $130,000 to Stormy Daniels, an adult film actress, to keep her from disclosing an alleged sexual encounter with Trump in 2006. Trump faces 34 felony charges for falsifying business records related to the reimbursement of Cohen for this payment. Cohen's earlier testimony included details corroborated by evidence such as phone logs, emails, and text messages.
In the courtroom, Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche fiercely cross-examined Cohen, focusing on his credibility and past behavior, including his outspoken remarks about Trump on social media. The defense aims to depict Cohen, who has admitted to a history of lying, as an unreliable witness.
Cohen has managed to maintain composure during the questioning, further identifying Trump as the orchestrator behind the payment and cover-up to protect his presidential campaign.
As proceedings continue, Cohen’s testimony is expected to play a pivotal role, with closing arguments likely to begin next week. Trump has denied all allegations and any wrongdoing.