Michael Cohen's testimony in the New York v. Trump trial has concluded, with the former Trump lawyer's credibility being severely damaged by revelations of stealing from the Trump Organization. Experts believe this could shift the jury's perception and lead to Trump's acquittal.
Michael Cohen's testimony in the New York v. Trump trial has dominated headlines, with experts speculating that his admissions of theft and lying may have severely compromised his credibility and potentially swayed the jury in Trump's favor.
Cohen, a former fixer for Trump, initially entered the trial with a well-established reputation as a convicted liar. However, his admission of stealing from the Trump Organization on Monday has raised eyebrows and has been seen as a turning point for the prosecution.
Cohen acknowledged taking money from the Trump Organization in retaliation for a bonus cut, a move described as a "real Perry Mason moment" by host Howard Kurtz on "MediaBuzz." This revelation was not anticipated by the prosecution, which has been accused of sloppiness in not addressing it earlier.
The matter was exacerbated by Cohen's admission of delivering $20,000 in cash to a tech firm hired by the Trump campaign, while keeping the remaining $30,000 for himself. This blatant theft has further damaged Cohen's reputation and raised questions about his motives.
Prosecutors were unable to effectively counter Cohen's admissions of stealing during their cross-examination, providing little defense for his actions. This has led to speculation that jurors may dismiss Cohen's other testimony, including his insistence that he would not have paid hush money to Stormy Daniels without Trump's approval.
Cohen's testimony was further undermined by the defense's calling of Robert Costello as a witness. Costello testified that Cohen had denied having any incriminating information on Trump, a claim that contradicts Cohen's previous statements.
Costello's testimony was marked by outbursts and unprofessional behavior, leading to a stern rebuke from the judge. However, his claims have nonetheless raised questions about Cohen's credibility and the validity of his accusations against Trump.
Closing arguments in the trial are scheduled for next Tuesday, with experts predicting that Cohen's evisceration on the stand may weaken the prosecution's case. The jury must now decide whether to believe Cohen's testimony and find Trump guilty of falsifying documents, or to acquit him based on the former lawyer's damaged credibility.
The outcome of the trial is highly anticipated, with the verdict having the potential to impact Trump's political future and the national discourse on political corruption.
