The trial involving former US President Donald Trump took a dramatic turn as his lawyer, Todd Blanche, accused star witness Michael Cohen of lying about a crucial phone conversation regarding a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels. Blanche's assertions aimed to discredit Cohen's testimony, portraying him as an unreliable witness seeking vengeance against his former boss.
Blanche challenged Cohen's claim that the phone call was about the hush money payment, suggesting it was instead related to a harassment incident involving a prank caller. Cohen, while maintaining his stance, acknowledged uncertainty about the accuracy of his recollection. The heated exchange underscored the contentious nature of the trial and the efforts to undermine Cohen's credibility.
Throughout the trial, Blanche sought to portray Cohen as a vindictive individual who had previously lied to Congress and the US Justice Department. He highlighted Cohen's private pursuit of a pardon from Trump while publicly denouncing such actions. Blanche aimed to paint Cohen as someone willing to say anything to harm Trump, including fabricating evidence and seeking personal gain.
Despite Cohen's admission of blaming others, including Trump, for his own criminal convictions, he maintained composure while facing intense questioning. The trial's outcome holds personal significance for Cohen, who faced probing inquiries about his motives and past actions.
The trial, considered the first criminal proceeding against a former US president, is a critical test for Trump, who has denied wrongdoing in the Stormy Daniels case and faces multiple legal challenges. Cohen's testimony, although controversial, remains central to the prosecution's case, alleging Trump's involvement in illegal activities related to campaign finance laws.
As the trial proceeds, uncertainties loom over whether Trump will testify, with conflicting statements from him and his legal team. The defence's strategy and Trump's potential involvement continue to fuel speculation about the trial's outcome and its implications for the former president's political future.
