Former President Donald Trump’s criminal trial over alleged hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels took a dramatic turn on Thursday as a recording was played featuring Trump’s former attorney Michael Cohen saying Trump “hate(d) the fact that we did it.” The $130,000 payment was made to Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair with Trump.
During a recorded phone call between Cohen and Daniels’ lawyer, Keith Davidson, Cohen was heard saying, “I hate the fact that we did it,” multiple outlets reported. Davidson clarified that the comment was about the hush money payment to Daniels, seemingly confirming that Trump was aware of the deal. This audio recording marks the first time the jury has heard Cohen’s voice, as he is expected to be a key witness for the prosecution.
Cohen pleaded guilty in 2018 to causing an unlawful campaign contribution by making the hush money payment, while Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing in the case. Trump has denied the allegations of an affair with Daniels, claiming the payment was legal. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges related to this case.
Trump is currently on trial in New York facing 34 felony charges related to an alleged reimbursement to Cohen for the payment made to Daniels. Throughout the trial, Trump’s attorneys have sought to discredit Cohen, arguing that he “cannot be trusted” and is biased against Trump. In his opening statements, Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche suggested that Cohen may be motivated by spite after being denied a position in Trump’s administration, pointing out that Cohen’s livelihood depends on Trump’s downfall.
The trial has been ongoing for over two weeks, with Trump’s legal team focusing on undermining Cohen’s credibility. Despite Cohen’s guilty plea and evidence presented in court, Trump continues to deny any involvement in the hush money payment to Daniels. The audio recording played during the trial adds a new layer of insight into Trump’s knowledge and feelings regarding the payment, potentially impacting the outcome of the case.
The case highlights the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding campaign finance laws and the actions of public figures. As the trial continues, the testimony of key witnesses like Cohen will play a crucial role in determining Trump’s legal fate. The recording played in court sheds light on the inner workings of Trump’s inner circle and provides further evidence of his involvement in the hush money payment to Daniels.
