The first criminal trial of the four cases against former President Donald Trump is set to begin on Monday in Manhattan, sparking a media storm and comparisons to the O.J. Simpson trial. The case, known as the Stormy Daniels case, revolves around hush money paid to the porn actress to keep silent about her alleged affair with Trump.
The trial is seen as a high-stakes affair, with Trump standing for election in November and facing charges of electoral interference, mishandling of confidential documents, and contempt for women. The Stormy Daniels case, in particular, has been described as Trump’s Achilles heel, as it involves base instincts, finances, and political ambition.
Despite attempts by Trump’s defense team to delay the trial, it is set to proceed, with the former president facing 34 charges classified as Class E felonies in the State of New York. A majority of Americans view the charges as serious, with the potential for a maximum prison sentence of four years for each count if Trump is convicted.
While some experts believe that the trial may not significantly influence public opinion, others argue that a conviction could have an impact on voter perception. The trial is expected to last between six and eight weeks, with prosecutors planning to call witnesses such as Stormy Daniels, Karen McDougal, and Michael Cohen.
As the trial unfolds, the spectacle is expected to draw attention both inside and outside the courtroom, with Trump’s fate ultimately resting in the hands of 12 anonymous peers selected from the Manhattan community. The outcome of the trial could have far-reaching implications for Trump’s political future and the upcoming November elections.