Former President Donald Trump’s legal troubles continue to make headlines as his criminal trial unfolds in New York City. The trial centers around a hush money payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump during the 2016 election. Prosecutors argue that the payment was part of a larger effort to deceive voters and protect Trump’s image during his first White House bid.
Outside the courtroom, actor Robert De Niro made a bold statement, calling Trump a “clown” who is intent on destroying American democracy. De Niro, a vocal Democrat, attended a Biden campaign event with two former law enforcement officers who were present during the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021, by Trump supporters.
In another legal battle, the US Supreme Court rejected imprisoned lawyer Michael Avenatti’s appeal to overturn his convictions for defrauding a youth basketball coach and extorting Nike. Avenatti, who gained fame for representing Stormy Daniels in a separate case against Trump, has been sentenced to 2-1/2 years behind bars.
Meanwhile, tensions are high in the US House of Representatives as Republican Tony Gonzales faces a challenge from a far-right candidate in Texas. The outcome of this primary runoff could have implications for the future makeup of the House.
As severe storms wreak havoc across multiple states, claiming at least 21 lives over the Memorial Day weekend, the nation grapples with the aftermath of natural disasters and political turmoil. Amidst it all, California academic workers strike in support of pro-Palestinian protests, adding another layer of complexity to the current social and political landscape.