The Start of a Stressful Countdown – The New York Times

The first trial of an American president is coming to a dramatic conclusion as the prosecution rested its case in the criminal trial of Donald Trump. After 15 days of testimony and 20 witnesses, including Trump’s former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen, the trial has been filled with intense moments and sharp confrontations.

One such confrontation occurred between the judge, Juan Merchan, and a defense witness, Robert Costello, who consulted with Cohen. Costello’s testimony, overshadowed by his behavior, led to a scolding from the judge for not displaying proper decorum in the courtroom.

As the trial nears its end, closing arguments are set to take place next Tuesday, following the Memorial Day break. The jury is expected to be sent home for a long break, unless Trump decides to testify in his own defense, which seems unlikely.

The case revolves around Trump falsifying business records related to a hush-money payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election. Both Cohen and Daniels have been key witnesses in the prosecution’s case, with defense lawyers attacking their credibility.

As the trial continues, the defense is expected to focus on themes such as the payment to Daniels being part of a nondisclosure agreement and Trump acting to protect his family from rumors. Trump has denied the charges and continues to portray the case as politically motivated.

With tensions running high and the trial reaching its climax, all eyes are on the courtroom as the fate of the former president hangs in the balance.