Overview of the Trump Hush Money Trial
In the historic hush money trial involving former United States president Donald Trump, his defence team rested its case without calling Trump to testify. This decision paved the way for jurors to begin deliberations.
Trump’s Decision Not to Testify
Trump’s choice not to take the witness stand brought a swift conclusion to his defence. Speculation had been rife for weeks about whether he would defend himself against charges of falsifying business records to conceal a hush money payment to adult film actor Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election.
Court Proceedings
During the trial, Trump’s lawyers called two witnesses in his defence. Justice Juan Merchan announced that jurors would return the following week to hear closing arguments, indicating the upcoming phase of the trial.
Challenges Faced by Prosecutors
Trump’s lawyers have sought to dismiss the case before it reaches the jury, citing concerns about the credibility of ex-lawyer Michael Cohen, a key witness for the prosecution. Despite these challenges, the judge expressed a willingness to let jurors evaluate Cohen’s credibility independently.
Upcoming Developments
As the trial nears its conclusion after weeks of testimony and evidence, Trump’s legal team will have the opportunity to present their evidence and witnesses. The former president maintains his innocence in the face of the indictment against him.
