Prosecutors Accuse Trump of Attempting to 'Corrupt' 2016 Election
In a historic legal proceeding, former President Donald Trump is on trial, accused of falsifying business records in connection with a $130,000 payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. The payment, which was made by Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen, was allegedly intended to prevent Daniels from discussing her claimed sexual encounter with Trump prior to the 2016 presidential election. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office is bringing the case, which involves 34 felony counts and could result in up to four years in prison if Trump is found guilty.
Prosecutors assert that Trump engaged in a "catch-and-kill" tactic to suppress damaging personal stories that could have impacted his campaign, while the defense, led by attorney Todd Blanche, maintains Trump's innocence and has criticized the credibility of Michael Cohen, who serves as a key witness for the government. The defense also argued that the case should never have been brought to trial.
The trial has significant political implications as it unfolds in the lead-up to another potential White House bid by Trump. It is noted that a conviction would not bar Trump from holding the office of president again, but it would prevent him from attempting to pardon himself for any state convictions. Witnesses expected to testify include Michael Cohen, Stormy Daniels, and former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker. This marks the first criminal trial of a former U.S. president, setting a precedent in American legal history.
