The Trump trial is currently on a brief lunch break in New York City. The former president and his legal team are expected to reenter the courtroom shortly, with Michael Cohen set to return to the stand for further testimony. The cross-examination during the trial has been focused on establishing Michael Cohen as an angry liar motivated by money and seeking vengeance against Donald Trump for not being included in the former president's inner circle.
One significant point of contention raised during the cross-examination is the testimony of Robert Costello, a lawyer who previously advised Michael Cohen. Costello's account contradicts Cohen's current testimony regarding Trump's involvement in the Stormy Daniels non-disclosure agreement. Costello claims that Cohen had stated Trump was not involved, while Cohen now asserts that Trump was aware of and approved the agreement.
Questions surrounding Costello's potential role as a defense witness remain unresolved, as the cross-examination is expected to continue when the trial resumes around 2:15 PM. However, the proceedings are scheduled to conclude early at 4:00 PM due to a juror commitment, raising the possibility that the cross-examination may extend into the following week.
The meticulous approach taken by Todd Blanche in discrediting Cohen's testimony and highlighting inconsistencies in his statements underscores the contentious nature of the trial. As the courtroom drama unfolds, the focus remains on unraveling the complex web of relationships and conflicting accounts surrounding the allegations against the former president.