Michael Cohen, former personal attorney to ex-President Donald Trump, faces intense scrutiny and skepticism as he prepares to testify in the New York v. Trump trial. Legal experts and pundits raise concerns about his credibility and social media presence, casting doubts on his reliability as a key witness.
Michael Cohen, once a loyal confidant of former President Donald Trump, now stands as a sworn enemy and is set to take the witness stand in the landmark New York v. Trump trial. However, his credibility and suitability as a witness have come under intense scrutiny, with pundits and legal experts across the political spectrum openly questioning his reliability.
Cohen's lack of impulse control and social media presence have raised eyebrows, particularly in light of the trial's ongoing gag order. New York Times reporter Susanne Craig criticized Cohen's Twitter and TikTok activities, calling them "remarkable" and a display of "lack of impulse control."
Cohen's motivations and past behavior have also been called into question. Some have labeled him a "grifter," while others view him as a reformed sinner. His role in arranging a $130,000 payment to adult actress Stormy Daniels in 2016 will be a central focus of his testimony. However, his credibility will be crucial in determining whether the jury believes his account.
Trump and Cohen's relationship soured in 2018 after years of the latter carrying out what he called Trump's "dirty deeds." Attorney Mike Davis, an outspoken Trump supporter, labeled Cohen a "convicted perjurer" and "disbarred attorney" who is now exploiting the case for financial gain.
Judge Juan Merchan has directed New York prosecutors to instruct Cohen to cease making public comments about the case and Trump before taking the stand. However, Cohen has continued to make TikTok live videos speculating about Trump's imprisonment and even fundraising through viewer donations.
Fox News contributor Jonathan Turley has called Cohen a "serial perjurer" who is profiting from the case by soliciting cash and selling merchandise on social media. Imprisoned attorney Michael Avenatti, who initially represented Daniels, expressed skepticism about the state's ability to win without the jury believing and liking Cohen, which he considers a "tall task."
Several media outlets have highlighted Cohen's flaws, including the Washington Post, which published a piece titled "One thing is already clear at Trump's N.Y. trial: Nobody liked Michael Cohen." The article details ongoing disdain for the key prosecution witness and his "flawed" reputation.
ABC News has also reported on Cohen's TikTok actions, noting that defense attorneys could use them to damage his credibility. CNN panelists have debated Cohen's reliability, with Arthur Aidala pointing to his "history of being a liar" and "a fraud."
Cohen's credibility has even been questioned internationally, with the BBC reporting that his outside-courtroom antics have "not exactly helped" the prosecution. Former Manhattan prosecutor Lance Fletcher stated that Cohen "has got all sorts of credibility problems."
Despite these concerns, Cohen's testimony remains a crucial element in the New York v. Trump trial. The jury's assessment of his credibility will significantly influence the outcome of the case.
