In a recent interview with MSNBC’s Katie Phang, Michael Cohen, Donald Trump’s former lawyer, expressed his belief that the former president will face consequences in the New York hush money case. Cohen emphasized that accountability will be demanded in this matter.
Trump is currently grappling with a staggering 34 felony charges related to accusations of manipulating business records and hiding payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels, also known as Stephanie Clifford, during his 2016 presidential campaign. Daniels received a payment of $130,000 through a deal facilitated by Cohen, aimed at ensuring her silence regarding an alleged affair with Trump.
The former president, who is currently facing charges, maintains his innocence and vehemently denies any wrongdoing. He argues that the case against him is politically motivated, fueled by his potential presidential candidacy in 2024 as the GOP nominee. Furthermore, he refutes any allegations of an affair with Daniels.
The trial in the case filed by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg was scheduled to commence on March 25th. However, Judge Juan Merchan has granted a 30-day delay in the trial. This decision comes after the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) provided over 100,000 additional pages of pretrial discovery.
During an appearance on The Katie Phang Show on Saturday, Cohen confidently stated, “There is no doubt in my mind that Donald will be tried in this case.”
The jury will make the decision, not me or any of the witnesses. They will consider the credibility of the witnesses, but the most crucial factor will be the documentary evidence. If the jury believes it, it will ultimately demonstrate his guilt for the charges he is facing. I predict that Donald Trump will be held responsible.
Newsweek contacted Cohen through a text message to seek his comment.
Michael Cohen, who has served time in prison after pleading guilty to eight criminal counts, including campaign finance violations, tax fraud, and bank fraud, has emerged as a vocal critic of former President Trump.
During a civil fraud trial against Trump in New York, he had already provided testimony. He is anticipated to play a crucial role as a witness in Bragg’s case against the ex-president.
As Trump campaigns for the presidency, he faces the daunting task of managing the four criminal indictments against him. In addition, he must find a way to raise $454 million by March 25 as he appeals the decision in his civil fraud trial.
The financial burden of Trump’s legal battles is increasing, as he was required to pay a bond of almost $92 million while appealing the civil defamation lawsuit filed by former Elle columnist E. Jean Carroll, which she ultimately won.
