Understanding the Trump Trial: Michael Cohen’s Credibility Questioned | National News

In the ongoing hush money trial of former President Donald Trump, his defense attorney aggressively cross-examined key prosecution witness Michael Cohen on Thursday, painting him as an unreliable liar. Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer and fixer, is crucial to the prosecution’s case, which alleges that Trump sought to conceal payments made to silence claims of extramarital affairs before the 2016 election.

During the cross-examination, defense attorney Todd Blanche focused on Cohen’s history of lying under oath, particularly his guilty plea to federal charges in 2018 for lying to Congress about a Trump Tower Moscow project. Blanche highlighted inconsistencies in Cohen’s statements and attempted to undermine his credibility.

Blanche also questioned Cohen’s changing views on accepting a pardon from Trump, pointing out conflicting statements Cohen made in congressional hearings. Cohen explained that he initially rejected the idea of a pardon but later reconsidered due to the pressure he felt.

Additionally, Blanche challenged Cohen’s account of a phone call with Trump’s bodyguard, Keith Schiller, in which they discussed resolving issues with Stormy Daniels. Blanche pointed to text message records suggesting the call was about a different matter involving a 14-year-old boy, raising doubts about Cohen’s testimony.

The defense also played clips from Cohen’s podcast to portray him as seeking revenge against Trump, further questioning his motives and credibility. Despite the intense cross-examination, Cohen maintained his stance and defended his testimony.

As the trial continues, with Trump’s possible testimony looming, the courtroom drama is set to intensify. Stay tuned for more updates on this high-profile case.