Trump on trial: Michael Cohen takes the stand in hush money trial

NBC News19 minutes read

Michael Cohen testified about paying Stormy Daniels under Trump's direction, emphasizing Trump's alleged involvement in payments and potential felony charges. The trial's impact on voters is uncertain, with Trump observing closely while his allies show support and the defense focuses on Cohen's credibility and inconsistencies.

Insights

  • Michael Cohen's testimony implicates Donald Trump in directing hush money payments to adult film stars, potentially impacting his campaign, highlighting the legal scrutiny surrounding the former president.
  • The trial's dynamics reveal a complex web of financial transactions and relationships involving Cohen, Trump, and key figures like David Pecker and Allen Weisselberg, underscoring the intricate nature of the case and the challenges faced by prosecutors in proving felony charges against Trump.

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Recent questions

  • What did Michael Cohen testify about regarding Donald Trump?

    Cohen testified he paid Stormy Daniels for Trump's silence.

  • Who initially paid Karen McDougal $150,000 related to Donald Trump?

    David Pecker made the initial payment to Karen McDougal.

  • Why was Allen Weisselberg not called up to testify in the trial?

    Risks involved prevented Allen Weisselberg from testifying.

  • How did Michael Cohen's relationship with Donald Trump change after the 2016 election?

    Cohen's relationship with Trump soured due to unpaid reimbursements.

  • What is the potential impact of the trial on American voters?

    The trial's impact on voters remains uncertain with limited public interest.

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Summary

00:00

Cohen testifies Trump directed hush money payments.

  • Michael Cohen testified that he paid a former adult film star for her silence under Donald Trump's direction.
  • Cohen worked for Trump for decades as his personal lawyer and silenced Stormy Daniels.
  • Trump allegedly directed Cohen to pay Daniels to avoid negative impact on his campaign.
  • Prosecutors need to prove an underlying crime to bring felony charges against Trump.
  • Cohen testified that Trump approved all payments and wanted the money back.
  • David Pecker initially paid $150,000 to Karen McDougal, frustrated when Trump didn't reimburse him.
  • Trump allegedly promised to take care of the $150,000 payment to control the story.
  • Cohen and Trump's relationship soured after the 2016 election due to unpaid reimbursements.
  • Cohen's credibility is questioned due to past lies, but cooperating witnesses are common in cases.
  • Cohen's testimony about Trump's involvement in payments could be crucial in the trial.

13:27

Trump Trial: PowerPoints, Allies, and Loyalty

  • Prosecutors utilize PowerPoints with lots of words and subheadings in their presentations.
  • Allen Weisselberg was mentioned as a significant figure, but he was not called up to testify due to the risks involved.
  • The defense anticipates a lengthy cross-examination, focusing on inconsistencies and lies from the witness.
  • Trump's allies, including Vance and Tuberville, attended the trial to show support and criticize the prosecution.
  • Michael Cohen's deteriorating relationship with Trump is highlighted, emphasizing his loyalty and eagerness to please.
  • The trial's impact on voters remains uncertain, with only 20% of Americans closely following the proceedings.
  • The prosecution aims to elevate the charges from a misdemeanor to a felony by linking the case to election interference.
  • Despite legal challenges, Trump appears content with his current legal team, despite past conflicts with attorneys.
  • The lack of a strong Democratic campaign against Trump based on the trial's developments is noted.
  • The judge's public criticism of Trump's defense attorneys during the trial is highlighted, with Trump observing the proceedings closely.
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