Lawyers in the hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump have presented their closing arguments, leaving jurors to decide whether Trump will be the first former American president convicted of a crime. Here are the main takeaways from the trial:
- Cohen’s Credibility and the Reimbursement Scheme:
- Prosecutors focused on Michael Cohen’s testimony, emphasizing that Trump approved the repayment plan related to the hush money payment. Cohen testified that Trump said, “This is going to be one heck of a ride in DC.” The prosecution argued that Trump’s involvement in the reimbursement scheme led to false entries in business records, making him guilty of falsifying records.
- Key Point: Trump’s role in the reimbursement scheme was central to the case.
- The Stormy Daniels Payment:
- Prosecutors highlighted the $130,000 payment made to Stormy Daniels through a shell company in exchange for her silence about an alleged affair with Trump in 2006. Trump has denied the affair and the payments.
- Key Point: The alleged hush money payment was a critical element of the case.
- Election Interference Allegations:
- Prosecutors argued that Trump’s actions were not merely about personal embarrassment but aimed at affecting the 2016 election outcome. They contended that the reimbursements were falsely classified as legal expenses to conceal their true nature.
- Key Point: The case involves allegations of election interference.
- Disguised Transactions and Falsified Records:
- Prosecutors accused Trump of disguising the transaction as a legal payment and falsifying business records multiple times. Their argument centered on Trump’s alleged efforts to promote his candidacy by suppressing negative information.
- Key Point: Trump’s alleged falsification of records is a significant charge.
- Defense’s Counterarguments:
- Trump’s defense team countered by questioning Cohen’s credibility as a witness. They argued that the charges were baseless and relied heavily on an untrustworthy witness.
- Key Point: The defense emphasized Cohen’s credibility issues.
In conclusion, the trial’s outcome hinges on whether jurors find Trump guilty of falsifying business records and participating in an illegal conspiracy. As the proceedings come to an end, the nation awaits the verdict that could shape the legacy of a former president.
