Trump Hush Money Trial: Closing Arguments
Former United States President Donald Trump, accompanied by three of his children, arrived at the courthouse as the historic trial nears its end. The jury is set to hear closing arguments on charges related to $130,000 in hush money allegedly paid to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election.
‘A Dark Day in America’
Before entering the court, Trump spoke to reporters, citing criticism from political and legal commentators regarding the case. He referred to Judge Juan Merchan as “corrupt” and “conflicted” but refrained from elaborating due to a gag order. Trump expressed concerns about the impact of the trial on America.
Closing Arguments Underway
The judge emphasized to the jurors that the lawyers’ statements were not evidence and that they should be the sole judges of the facts in the case. Trump’s lawyer, Todd Blanche, asserted the former president’s innocence and urged the jurors to focus on the lack of hard evidence rather than salacious details.
- Blanche stated, “President Trump is innocent. He did not commit any crimes, and the district attorney has not met their burden of proof.”
- He advised the jurors to look beyond Stormy Daniels’ account of the alleged encounter with Trump and not rely on testimonies from key witnesses like Michael Cohen.
Daniels, also known as Stephanie Clifford, testified about the alleged sexual encounter with Trump and the hush money payment. Blanche made a final plea to the jurors, highlighting the lack of evidence supporting the accusations against Trump.
If convicted, Trump could face imprisonment, although it is unlikely for a first-time offender of such a crime.