One Main Witness Could Decide Trump’s Fate
- Former President Donald Trump is on trial in New York City
- He is accused of hiding hush money payments to a porn star before the 2016 election
- Trump’s ex-lawyer, Michael Cohen, is the key witness against him
- The jury must decide if they believe Cohen’s testimony about Trump’s involvement
Do you think Cohen is telling the truth about Trump? Let’s take a closer look at this case.
What is the Hush Money Trial All About?
Trump is facing 34 charges related to business records. Prosecutors claim he falsified records to cover up hush money paid to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016. The money was meant to buy her silence about an alleged affair with Trump.
The heart of the case is whether Trump knew about and approved the $130,000 payment to Daniels. His former “fixer,” Michael Cohen, says Trump was involved. Trump denies any wrongdoing.
Cohen: Trump’s Key Accuser
Cohen is the prosecution’s star witness. He has admitted arranging the hush money payouts and says Trump directed him to do it. However, Cohen has also confessed to lying in the past.
The defense claims Cohen cannot be trusted. They argue he has turned on Trump for revenge after the President refused to pardon him.
Could Trump Cut a Deal?
Some legal experts think Trump could plead guilty to lesser charges like a misdemeanor in a last-minute deal. This may let him avoid potential jail time if convicted.
However, prosecutors may refuse any plea bargain after such an extensive trial. If no deal happens, the case goes to the jury to decide guilt or innocence.
Both Sides Make Final Arguments
After weeks of testimony, the trial is now in the closing arguments phase. On Wednesday, prosecutors and Trump’s lawyers took turns convincing the jury why the former President is guilty or innocent.
The defense likely pushed the idea that Cohen’s shaky history leaves reasonable doubt about his claims against Trump. Prosecutors argued the evidence proves Trump’s direct role in concealing the hush payments illegally.
What’s Next for the Jury?
With closing arguments done, the case now moves to the jury for deliberations. This anonymous group of New Yorkers will examine all testimony and evidence presented.
The jury must reach a unanimous guilty or not guilty verdict. They can request transcripts to review witness statements during deliberations, which could take days or potentially weeks.
If even one juror harbors reasonable doubt about Trump’s guilt, it would mean an acquittal. A guilty verdict could send Trump’s case to a long appeals process.
The Biggest Legal Threat Yet?
While not a violent crime, experts say the charges pose real risks for Trump’s future. A conviction could bring fines, probation, or even a short jail sentence, though unlikely.
More critically, it would be Trump’s first criminal offense if found guilty. This could impact his ability to run for President again or secure future pardons.
No former U.S. President has ever faced criminal charges like these before. How the anonymous New York jury interprets the evidence against Trump could shape history.
Do you think the jury will believe Michael Cohen’s testimony against Trump? Or will they find reasonable doubt and acquit the former President? Let me know your predictions in the comments!
