General Category => Trump Legal Investigations => Topic started by: mystery-ak on April 14, 2024, 07:49:44 pm
Title: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 14, 2024, 07:49:44 pm
A serial perjurer will try to prove an old misdemeanor against Trump in an embarrassment for the New York legal system By Social Links for Jonathan Turley Published April 14, 2024, 1:44 p.m. ET
The famous Roman philosopher and orator Marcus Tullius Cicero once said, “The more laws, the less justice.”
This week, New York judges and lawyers appear eager to prove that the same is true for cases against Donald Trump.
After an absurd $450 million decision courtesy of Attorney General Letitia James, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg will bring his equally controversial criminal prosecution over hush money paid to a former porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election.
Lawyers have been scouring the civil and criminal codes for any basis to sue or prosecute Trump before the upcoming 2024 election. This week will highlight the damage done to New York’s legal system because of this unhinged crusade. They’ve charged him with everything short of ripping a label off a mattress.
Just a few weeks ago, another judge imposed a roughly half trillion dollar penalty in a case without a single victim who lost a single cent on loans with Trump. (Indeed, bank officials testified they wanted more business with the Trump organization).
Now Bragg is bringing a case that has taken years to develop and millions of dollars in litigation cost for all parties. That is all over a crime from before the 2016 election that is a misdemeanor under state law that had already expired under the statute of limitations.
more https://nypost.com/2024/04/14/opinion/a-serial-perjurer-will-try-to-prove-an-old-misdemeanor-against-trump-in-an-embarrassment-for-the-new-york-legal-system/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 14, 2024, 08:13:04 pm
"roughly half trillion dollar penalty"
Billion, not trillion.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 01:07:25 pm
Michael Cohen is an admitted liar. He’s still going to be the star witness against Trump.
“If a jury doesn’t believe him, that’s it,” one former prosecutor said.
By Erica Orden
04/14/2024 07:00 AM EDT
NEW YORK — By his own admission, he has lied in court. He has lied to the media. And he has pleaded guilty to lying to Congress.
Now, he’s set to be state prosecutors’ key witness against Donald Trump.
Michael Cohen, the former president’s fixer-turned-foe, is expected to tell jurors in the criminal trial starting Monday that Trump directed him to pay $130,000 in hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels so that she wouldn’t go public in the final weeks of the 2016 election with an allegation about a sexual encounter with Trump. Prosecutors have accused the former president of falsifying business records reflecting Trump’s reimbursements to Cohen.
But while the prosecution’s ability to prove its case at trial could hinge on Cohen’s first-hand account of the hush money arrangement, Cohen also may be its most problematic witness due to long-running questions about his ability to tell the truth.
“If a jury doesn’t believe him, that’s it,” said Catherine Christian, a former Manhattan assistant district attorney.
more https://www.politico.com/news/2024/04/14/michael-cohen-credibility-trump-trial-00152122
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: bigheadfred on April 15, 2024, 01:13:50 pm
:bkmk:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 01:14:30 pm
Nine questions about the Trump trial, answered The historic trial will kick off at 10 am Monday in Manhattan By Emma Colton Fox News Published April 15, 2024 4:00am EDT | Updated April 15, 2024 4:11am EDT
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 15, 2024, 05:18:08 pm
He will never get an acquittal and I believe he's going to be judged by those who want to see him behind bars. There is no way they are going to find 12 impartial jurors.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 15, 2024, 05:21:55 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 15, 2024, 05:22:53 pm
What to know about Trump's hush money trial-
The trial begins today with jury selection, which could take up to two weeks because of the large pool of prospective jurors. The charges from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg stem from a $130,000 payment Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels at the end of the 2016 election to keep her from going public with an allegation that she and Trump had had an affair. Trump then repaid Cohen in installments marked as legal fees in company records. The proceedings mark the first time a former president has faced a criminal trial; Trump is charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records. He has denied the affair and pleaded not guilty to the charges, which he says are politically motivated. Trump is required to be present for the trial, which will take place four days a week and could last eight weeks. Judge Juan Merchan began the day's proceedings by reviewing pending motions. He ruled against a request that he recuse himself from the trial. .....
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 05:52:37 pm
Jonathan Turley: Trump’s New York Hush Money Case Is ‘Absurd’
Fox News legal analyst Jonathan Turley said Monday on Fox News Channel’s “America’s Newsroom” that former President Donald Trump’s New York trial for allegedly falsifying business records related to payments to porn star Stormy Daniel is “absurd.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 05:54:17 pm
Potential Trump hush money trial jurors being asked 42 questions On Monday, former President Trump made history as the 1st former president to stand trial on criminal charges By Lawrence Richard , Maria Paronich Fox News Published April 15, 2024 10:10am EDT | Updated April 15, 2024 11:15am EDT
Quote
The 42 questions on the questionnaire include:
1. A. Without telling us your address, in what neighborhood do you live? For example, Upper East Side, Lower West Side, Inwood, etc.
B. How long have you lived there?
C. Are you a native New Yorker? If not, where did you live previously?
2. A. What do you do for a living?
B. How long have you been doing that?
C. If you are retired, please tell us what you did before you retired.
3. A. Who is your current employer?
B. How large is your current employer?
C. Are you self-employed or own your own business?
D. Who was your prior employer?
4. What is your educational background? For example, high school diploma, college degree, graduate degree, etc.
5. A. Are you married?
B. Have you ever been married?
C. Do you have any children?
6. A. If you are married, or living with another adult, what does that person do for a living?
B. If you have adult children, what do they do?
7. A. What do you like to do in your spare time?
B. Do you have any interests or hobbies?
8. A. Do you participate in any organizations or advocacy groups?
B. Which ones?
9. A. Have you ever served on a jury before? If you did, please tell us how long ago that was and whether that was in Criminal Court, Civil Court, or Grand Jury.
B. Without telling us the verdict, please tell us whether the jury reached a verdict.
10. Which of the following print publications, cable and or network programs, or online media such as websites, blogs, or social media platforms do you visit, read, or watch?
The juror is then asked to check through various mainstream news platforms such as Fox News, the Wall Street Journal and others. They are also instructed to check through a list of social media platforms, including Facebook, X, TikTok and others.
11. Do you listen to or watch podcasts? If so, which ones?
12. Do you listen to talk radio? If so, which programs?
13. Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever been the victim of a crime? If so, please briefly tell us what happened?
14. Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever been employed by a law enforcement agency? For example, the police, FBI, District Attorney's Office, Department of Correction, etc.
15. Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever been employed by a federal, state, or local government, including but not limited to the State of New York?
16. Have you, a relative, or close friend ever been employed in the accounting or finance field?
17. Have you, a relative or close friend ever had any education, training, or work experience in the legal field, including but not limited to practicing criminal or civil law?
18. A. Have you, a relative, or close friend had any experience or interaction with the criminal justice system, including a police officer or other type of law enforcement agent, which caused you to form an opinion, whether positive or negative, about the police or our criminal justice system?
B. If so, what was that experience?
C. Would that experience prevent you from being a fair and impartial juror in this case?
19. Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever been accused or convicted of committing a crime?
20. Do you, a relative, or a close friend have a pending criminal case?
21. A. Do you have any political, moral, intellectual, or religious beliefs or opinions which might prevent you from following the Court's instructions on the law or which might slant your approach to this case?
B. Do you have any political, moral, intellectual or religious beliefs or opinions that would interfere with your ability to render a verdict in this criminal case?
22. Do you have a health condition that might interfere with your ability to be here on the appointed days and times or otherwise prevent you from serving as a juror?
23. Without telling us the name(s), do you take any medication that would prevent you from being able to concentrate or pay attention during the proceedings or during the deliberations?
24. Court proceedings normally end around 4:30 in the afternoon though on rare occasions, we might work beyond that. Would your schedule and responsibilities permit you to work later if it were absolutely necessary to complete that day's work?
25. Do you practice a religion that would prevent you from sitting as a juror on any particular weekday or weeknight?
26. Can you give us an assurance that you will be fair and impartial and not base your decision in this case upon a bias or prejudice in favor of or against a person who may appear in this trial, on account of that person's race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, religion, religious practice, age, disability, sexual orientation or political views?
27. Can you promise to guard against allowing stereotypes or attitudes about individuals or about groups of people, referred to as an implicit bias, influence your decision?
28. Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever worked for any company or organization that is owned or run by Donald Trump or anyone in his family?
29. A. Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever worked or volunteered for a Trump presidential campaign, the Trump presidential administration, or any other political entity affiliated with Mr. Trump?
B. Have you ever attended a rally or campaign event for Donald Trump?
C. Are you signed up for or have you ever been signed up for, subscribed to, or followed any newsletter or email listserv run by or on behalf of Mr. Trump or the Trump Organization?
D. Do you currently follow Donald Trump on any social media site or have you done so in the past?
E. Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever worked or volunteered for any anti-Trump group or organization?
F. Have you ever attended a rally or campaign event for any anti-Trump group or organization?
G. Are you signed up for or have you ever been signed up for, subscribed to, or followed any newsletter or email listserv run by or on behalf of any anti-Trump group or organization?
H. Do you currently follow any anti-Trump group or organization on any social media site, or have you done so in the past?
30. Have you ever considered yourself a supporter of or belonged to any of the following:
- the QAnon movement
- Proud Boys
- Oathkeepers
- Three Percenters
- Boogaloo Boys
- Antifa
31. Do you have any strong opinions or firmly held beliefs about whether a former president may be criminally charged in state court?
32. Do you have any feelings of opinions about how Mr. Trump is being treated in this case?
33. Can you give us your assurance that you will decide this case solely on the evidence you see and hear in this courtroom and the law as the judge gives it?
34. Do you have any strong opinions or firmly held beliefs about former President Donald Trump, or the fact that he is a current candidate for president that would interfere with your ability to be a fair and impartial juror?
35. Have you read (or listened to audio) of any of the following books or podcasts by Michael Cohen or Mark Pomerantz? If so, please let us know if what you have heard or read affects your ability to be a fair and impartial juror in this case.
Disloyal: A Memoir (2020) Mea Culpa (the podcast) Revenge (2022) People Vs. Donald Trump (2023)
36. The defendant in this case has written a number of books. Have you read (or listened to audio) of anyone or more of those books? If so, which ones?
37. Do you have any opinions about the legal limits governing political contributions?
38. Can you promise to set aside anything you may have heard or read about this case and render your verdict based solely on the evidence presented in this courtroom and the law as given to you by the judge?
39. Can you give us your absolute assurance that you will refrain from discussing this case with anyone in any manner and from watching, reading, or listening to any accounts of this case during the pendency of the trial?
40. Can you assure us that you will follow the judge's instructions on the law, including instructions on the definition of reasonable doubt and the presumption of innocence?
41. The United States Constitution provides that a defendant has no burden to introduce any evidence or to testify in a criminal case. If Mr. Trump chooses not to testify or to introduce any evidence, can you give us your assurance that you will not hold that against him?
42. Is there any reason, whether it be a bias or something else, that would prevent you from being fair and impartial if you are selected as a juror for this case?
more https://www.foxnews.com/politics/could-you-juror-trumps-new-york-hush-money-trial-42-questions-prosecutors-asking
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 06:07:59 pm
Prosecutors prod judge to fine Trump $3K, hold him in 'contempt' for breaching gag order in historic 'hush money' criminal trial
Prosecutors ask to fine Trump $3,000, hold him in 'contempt' for breaching gag order By Ben Kochman and Kyle Schnitzer
The DA's Office wants Justice Juan Merchan to fine Donald Trump $3,000 for violating the court's gag order by disparaging likely witnesses Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels in social media posts.
Trump has breached the order three times in Truth Social posts in recent days, prosecutor Christopher Conroy told the court.
“We think it is important for the court to remind Mr. Trump [that he] is a criminal defendant,” Conroy said.
Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche countered by arguing that Trump's online attacks on Cohen and Daniels don't breach the gag order because Trump is merely responding to "salacious, repeated, vehement attacks by these witnesses."
Merchan did not rule on the matter immediately.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 06:19:57 pm
First batch of potential jurors — 96 of them —about to be called By Kyle Schnitzer
The first batch of potential jurors in Donald Trump's hush money case will total 96 people, according to the judge.
Earlier Monday, Justice Juan M. Merchan said there are around total 500 potential jurors for the case.
The judge said he will hand both prosecutors and Trump's attorneys two lists that cannot be "photographed" or duplicated in "any way, shape or form."
One list will have the jurors' numbers, and another list will have their name and juror number, according to the judge.
Jurors are expected to enter the courtroom soon.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 06:21:05 pm
Judge threatens Trump with jail if he interrupts hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
Justice Juan M. Merchan warned Donald Trump that if he disrupts the proceedings in the hush money trial in any way, he could be jailed, with the proceeding continuing in his absence.
It's worth noting that this warning is given to every criminal defendant standing trial, not just Trump.
The notice came after Trump's attorney Todd Blanche claimed that Trump wants to be "present at everything."
"President Trump wants to be present at everything," Blanche said shortly before the lunch break.
He said Trump plans to be involved in court conferences and the jury selection process.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 06:22:40 pm
Oh boy, not good. Don Jr, Melania, Ivanka.... They are out to destroy the entire Trump family. Kushner is on the list as well....
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 15, 2024, 08:10:51 pm
I wonder how long this is going to go on. Reports are saying that he could miss Baron's graduation. **nononono*
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 08:35:49 pm
johnny maga @_johnnymaga
Trump is going on trial in a district that voted 90% for Joe Biden, with a judge who donated to Joe Biden, whose daughter has Kamala Harris as a client, under a DA who promised to "get Trump", over a "hush money" payment for an affair the other party admitted never happened
9:42 AM · Apr 15, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 08:40:13 pm
Laura Loomer @LauraLoomer
In the courtroom just now, Judge Merchan just told President Trump that he will be arrested if he doesn’t show up for trial every day.
The trial is expected to be 6-8 weeks long.
This is blatant ELECTION INTERFERENCE!
1:20 PM · Apr 15, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 08:45:34 pm
Trump’s ‘hush money’ NYC trial live updates: At least 50 of first 96 potential jurors dismissed for saying they couldn’t be fair, impartial By Social Links for Ben Kochman , Social Links for Kyle Schnitzer and Social Links for Kaydi Pelletier Updated April 15, 2024, 4:36 p.m. ET
Donald Trump is inside Manhattan Criminal Court today as his first criminal trial begins with jury selection, over six-figure hush-money payments the ex-president allegedly made to former porn star Stormy Daniels and Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal ahead of the 2016 election.
Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in an effort to cover up the payments to keep Daniels and McDougal quiet about alleged affairs the women say they had with him.
The case marks the first time a former president has gone to trial over criminal charges. The trial is expected to last about two months, and Trump faces up to four years in prison if convicted.
Because it’s a criminal trial, the former commander-in-chief must show up at court every day that it’s in session.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 08:46:30 pm
Jonathan Turley: "In this case, you're taking a misdemeanor, reviving it because it was dead, suggesting a crime that doesn't exist and then hitting Trump with dozens of counts. Most citizens see that for what it is: the weaponization of the criminal justice system." (Video)
Trump is going on trial in a district that voted 90% for Joe Biden, with a judge who donated to Joe Biden, whose daughter has Kamala Harris as a client, under a DA who promised to "get Trump", over a "hush money" payment for an affair the other party admitted never happened
9:42 AM · Apr 15, 2024
"BREAKING: Donald Trump speaks out after Judge Merchan informed him that he could not attend his son Barron’s high school graduation or he will be jailed" (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: rustynail on April 15, 2024, 08:59:45 pm
Could it be worth it politically to attend the graduation? Would it backfire if the judge jailed Trump for being a good father?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 09:02:50 pm
Leo Terrell @TheLeoTerrell
Idiotic Judge will not allow President Trump to attend his son's graduation. WHY? Stupid Judge will not allow President Trump to attend next week Supreme Court Hearing. WHY?
4:44 PM · Apr 15, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 09:16:02 pm
Idiotic Judge will not allow President Trump to attend his son's graduation. WHY? Stupid Judge will not allow President Trump to attend next week Supreme Court Hearing. WHY?
4:44 PM · Apr 15, 2024
9999hair out0000 8888crybaby This is about election interference and hatred for a past president who threatens Biden's re-election.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 09:26:49 pm
Scott Adams @ScottAdamsSays
The Stormy trial jurors will be limited to the most spectacular liars.
Prosecutor: “Do you have any bias about Trump?”
Prospective juror: “None whatsoever.”
Clown show
5:20 PM · Apr 15, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 09:30:38 pm
Owen Gregorian @OwenGregorian
These Democrat judges actively rehabilitate biased jurors.
Q: Do you believe Trump is guilty?
Juror: Yes
Judge: Can you put your beliefs aside and decide only based on the evidence of this case?
Juror: Yes.
Judge: Juror approved.
5:23 PM · Apr 15, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 09:40:04 pm
Trump: "As you witness this Biden Trial, I ask all Americans to remember that this is not just about me—this is about our country, and this is about YOU!" (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 15, 2024, 10:10:11 pm
Greg Price @greg_price11
It's a blatantly political prosecution, they banned Trump from talking about how it's a blatantly political prosecution, and now they'll throw him in jail if he isn't in the courtroom instead of campaigning for president.
Not even sure lawfare was this bad in the Soviet Union.
12:43 PM · Apr 15, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 15, 2024, 10:18:40 pm
9999hair out0000 8888crybaby This is about election interference and hatred for a past president who threatens Biden's re-election.
But...but...but...you've said you decided you're NOT voting for him anyway, so what's with the tears??? :shrug:
Thought you'd be drinking champagne with the rest of your homies!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 15, 2024, 11:07:21 pm
They are saying the Judge will prohibit Trump's attending Baron's Graduation. How can the Judge demand he sits in a courtroom if Baron's Graduation is on a weekend?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: berdie on April 15, 2024, 11:10:51 pm
They are saying the Judge will prohibit Trump's attending Baron's Graduation. How can the Judge demand he sits in a courtroom if Baron's Graduation is on a weekend?
Things that make ya go hmmmm.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 15, 2024, 11:13:55 pm
But...but...but...you've said you decided you're NOT voting for him anyway, so what's with the tears??? :shrug:
Thought you'd be drinking champagne with the rest of your homies!
Injustice is injustice. No one here is hoping for a legal railroad job of Trump. Just because I won't vote for him doesn't mean I support corrupt lawfare.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: berdie on April 15, 2024, 11:18:08 pm
But...but...but...you've said you decided you're NOT voting for him anyway, so what's with the tears??? :shrug:
Thought you'd be drinking champagne with the rest of your homies!
I would certainly never attempt to answer for @libertybele , @DCPatriot ...but I will answer this query from my viewpoint.
Whether I like or intend to vote for Trump is beside the point. The fact is, he is being persecuted for political reasons. Actually, it's wrong for any reason. In this country I find that shameful and see our republic slipping further away.
Besides, I can't afford champagne. :rolling:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on April 15, 2024, 11:28:47 pm
I would certainly never attempt to answer for @libertybele , @DCPatriot ...but I will answer this query from my viewpoint.
Whether I like or intend to vote for Trump is beside the point. The fact is, he is being persecuted for political reasons. Actually, it's wrong for any reason. In this country I find that shameful and see our republic slipping further away.
Injustice is injustice. No one here is hoping for a legal railroad job of Trump. Just because I won't vote for him doesn't mean I support corrupt lawfare.
Yup
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on April 15, 2024, 11:54:27 pm
Injustice is injustice. No one here is hoping for a legal railroad job of Trump. Just because I won't vote for him doesn't mean I support corrupt lawfare.
Sorry...not buying the crap you're selling here. You've never said one positive thing about Donald Trump. No difference between you and the DNC.
The adage is "All's fair in love and war!!"
Or... "The enemy of my enemy is my FRiend!!"
Whatever it takes to retire his ass, right?? You guyz make me vomit!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on April 15, 2024, 11:56:17 pm
But...but...but...you've said you decided you're NOT voting for him anyway, so what's with the tears??? :shrug:
Thought you'd be drinking champagne with the rest of your homies!
That is where your thinking is completely twisted. Just because I won't be voting for him, doesn't mean that I don't think he is being treated unfairly and acknowledge the witch hunt that started soon after his presidency continues. What is happening to Trump is dead wrong.
Why, oh why would I celebrate someone being treated unjustly and unlawfully??? Especially an ex-president.
This has everything to do with the left purposefully interfering with an election. There are several reasons why I will not vote for him, but celebrate what is happening to him? Definitely not! It saddens me, it angers me and I find it very troubling.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Lando Lincoln on April 16, 2024, 12:51:25 am
This bull$hit lawfare has locked in my vote for President Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 16, 2024, 12:53:00 am
Maybe it is because she has principles. Ever think of that? On second thought, you probably have no idea what I am talking about.
??? Sniff...somebody just fart??
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 16, 2024, 01:05:42 am
Showing my TDS here, again. But a hypothetical here on those that want to question/answer. Had Trump, in 2016 not been able to slime over his past Adulterous Affairs, while he was blaming Cruz for the same $hit in the Rag (National Enquirer) that he was using to cover his crap, Had he failed then and that exploded in the Nation; The Evangelicals would leave Trump in droves and Cruz be our President right now?
I think so.
He shouldn't have been porkin Bunnies and P0rn Stars, especially with a Wife/Newborn at home. Screw em.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 16, 2024, 01:10:47 am
Showing my TDS here, again. But a hypothetical here on those that want to question/answer. Had Trump, in 2016 not been able to slime over his past Adulterous Affairs, while he was blaming Cruz for the same $hit in the Rag (National Enquirer) that he was using to cover his crap, Had he failed then and that exploded in the Nation; The Evangelicals would leave Trump in droves and Cruz be our President right now?
I think so.
He shouldn't have been porkin Bunnies and P0rn Stars, especially with a Wife/Newborn at home. Screw em.
So Hillz would have been better?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Lando Lincoln on April 16, 2024, 01:12:48 am
Showing my TDS here, again. But a hypothetical here on those that want to question/answer. Had Trump, in 2016 not been able to slime over his past Adulterous Affairs, while he was blaming Cruz for the same $hit in the Rag (National Enquirer) that he was using to cover his crap, Had he failed then and that exploded in the Nation; The Evangelicals would leave Trump in droves and Cruz be our President right now?
I think so.
He shouldn't have been porkin Bunnies and P0rn Stars, especially with a Wife/Newborn at home. Screw em.
None of that justifies the grotesque bastardization of our courts. The courts are blatantly weaponized.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 16, 2024, 01:18:12 am
None of that justifies the grotesque bastardization of our courts. The courts are blatantly weaponized.
One of the best things about Trump's Presidency is that he exposed how evil politicians (of both Parties) are. Now everybody is deeply suspicious of government, a much needed wake-up call.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 16, 2024, 01:19:04 am
NEVER in a Long shot!! @Cyber Liberty BUT Cruz would have been better positioned to beat hellary other than barely, which Trump did. I'm talking the Republican Primaries in early to mid year 2016, when Trump was lying to all his Christian Voters, denying he had even had the affairs. Most of his psychopathic followers still believe that to this day.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 16, 2024, 01:21:50 am
One of the best things about Trump's Presidency is that he exposed how evil politicians (of both Parties) are. Now everybody is deeply suspicious of government, a much needed wake-up call.
Yes, a much needed wake up call, unfortunately, it's too late.
It's going to take a miracle to keep this country in tact.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 16, 2024, 01:29:57 am
Sorry...not buying the crap you're selling here. You've never said one positive thing about Donald Trump. No difference between you and the DNC.
The adage is "All's fair in love and war!!" Whatever it takes to retire his ass, right??
I've repeated said Trump was being railroaded. The bullshit is yours. I've never said whatever it takes. It's your own lack of principles that blinds you to that simple truth.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 16, 2024, 01:34:09 am
One of the best things about Trump's Presidency is that he exposed how evil politicians (of both Parties) are. Now everybody is deeply suspicious of government, a much needed wake-up call.
Sure, he did that. Most here already knew that since about Kennedy. He did expose it to a much wider audience. What did he do about it? He had 4 years and contributed to it even more, exponentially. It seems to me that we've lost more Liberties in the last 10 years as an American Citizen than in the 60 or so years before it.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 16, 2024, 01:38:33 am
So ..my questions are ..... what IF Trump is found guilty? What IF Trump is sentenced to do jail time? What IF that jail time surpasses the date of the convention??? Will the RNC then nominate someone??? Possibly Haley since she was the last one left in the race other than Trump?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 16, 2024, 01:42:14 am
Showing my TDS here, again. But a hypothetical here on those that want to question/answer. Had Trump, in 2016 not been able to slime over his past Adulterous Affairs, while he was falsely blaming Cruz for the same $hit in the Rag (National Enquirer) that he was using to cover his crap
Let's not forget that Trump actually did the thing he falsely accused Cruz of doing. It's what Democrats do.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 16, 2024, 01:43:12 am
Showing my TDS here, again. But a hypothetical here on those that want to question/answer. Had Trump, in 2016 not been able to slime over his past Adulterous Affairs ...
Quote
Benny Johnson @bennyjohnson
NEVER FORGET: In 2018, Stormy Daniels said she never had an affair with Trump. In fact, she said it was all made up to get money.
Stormy lost her lawsuit against Trump and was ordered to pay him $300k for legal fees, and her creepy porn lawyer was sentenced to 14 years in prison.
Right... How stupid do you have to be to believe that crap. Why would a billionaire seek a nondisclosure agreement with a porn star (and playmate too) and pay her $130k for nothing? And if a porn star made such a lurid allegation with nothing there the billionaire would sue the living daylights out of them - not demand an NDA.
Lies, piled on lies from both parties involved. Stop peddling the lies.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 16, 2024, 03:01:35 am
Lies, piled on lies from both parties involved. Stop peddling the lies.
It's a stupid lie at that. No one faults Trump for paying her off. It wasn't illegal. No law was broken. And it happened five years ago. Trump is in the right here. There's no reason to lie about it.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 16, 2024, 03:13:48 am
No One has done more to crush the aspiring Young Conservative movement that arose from the Tea Party (10 years) than DJT and I'm including Cocaine Mitch in that equation.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 16, 2024, 03:17:47 am
Right... How stupid do you have to be to believe that crap. Why would a billionaire seek a nondisclosure agreement with a porn star (and playmate too) and pay her $130k for nothing?
It's called ridding oneself of a nuisance claim. $130,000 is lunch money ---- even for her since she lost her countersuit and ended up owing Trump's legal fees.
The two surest financial wins for unscrupulous individuals are the race and harassment cards ----- which is why the accepted way to remove the dregs is with a check and an NDA --- for both businesses and rich individuals.
Checks are cut and NDAs are signed Every.Single.Day.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 16, 2024, 03:19:52 am
It's called ridding oneself of a nuisance claim. $130,000 is lunch money ---- even for her since she lost her countersuit and ended up owing Trump's legal fees.
The two surest financial wins for unscrupulous individuals are the race and harassment cards ----- which is why the accepted way to remove the dregs is with a check and an NDA --- for both businesses and rich individuals.
Checks are cut and NDAs are signed Every.Single.Day.
LOL.. Sorry I'm not that stupid.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 16, 2024, 03:23:20 am
No One has done more to crush the aspiring Young Conservative movement that arose from the Tea Party (10 years) than DJT and I'm including Cocaine Mitch in that equation.
It's not so much Trump, but the zealots who champion his inner Democrat. We all knew Trump wasn't a Conservative in 2016. Trump never lied about that. He never said he wanted to drain the Swamp or end baseline budgeting. Trump never said he was going to deport illegals or stop federal funding of abortion. Not once did he ever complain about the GOP Establishment, even filling his cabinet with the worst of them. It was his sycophants who pushed those lies over and over again, and continue to do so now.
When Trump saved Mitch McConnell's career in 2014, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump gives Planned Parenthood $2 billion in taxpayer money, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump piles on $8 trillion in new debt, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump dishes out $3 trillion in cash to people so that they don't have to work during Covid, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump names the RNC Chairman as his Chief-of-Staff, his sycophants make excuses. When he fills his cabinet and inner circle with the likes of Tom Price, Jeff Sessions, Christopher Wray, Elaine Chao, Nikki Haley, etc., his sycophants make excuses. And when Trump failed to veto a single Democrat bill in four years of office, his sycophants make excuses.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 16, 2024, 03:50:28 am
LOL... More of either she's lying now or lying then... They are liars... That's the only established fact. And you want to pick which lies make your case... In short peddling lies.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Smokin Joe on April 16, 2024, 04:32:18 am
It's called ridding oneself of a nuisance claim. $130,000 is lunch money ---- even for her since she lost her countersuit and ended up owing Trump's legal fees.
The two surest financial wins for unscrupulous individuals are the race and harassment cards ----- which is why the accepted way to remove the dregs is with a check and an NDA --- for both businesses and rich individuals.
Checks are cut and NDAs are signed Every.Single.Day.
Yeah, it is a holdup without a gun. Claims are often cheaper and easier to get rid of with a settlement, an NDI, and a claim that no guilt is implied by the payoff. Avoids scandals and legal fees, and eliminates risk of no payout for the alleged victim. It only works where the pockets are deep and scandal will hurt the brand/sales/reputation.
Why don't we hear about it more often? That's where the NDI, linked to the payout comes in. Talk and no money. But she already got hers, she just got greedy (and likely has been encouraged to come forward, whether that was a fiscal incentive or not).
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on April 16, 2024, 09:29:08 am
LOL! You mean to tell us you're trying be "noble" here? Not buying it, @LMAO ...and you're one of the more reasonable NTs on the forum IMO. :beer:
You’re confusing voting based on the issues versus based on a man. Just because I choose not to vote for a candidate based on his political positions and issues doesn’t mean I believe anything goes when it comes to harming that person.
There’s no “trying to be noble.” My view is based on the fact that all of these people ran for their elections promising to get Donald Trump. That means that they’re going to do whatever it takes to keep that promise. This is similar with what that Nifong did to the Duke lacrosse players several years ago with that rape accusation. He promised the black community a conviction if they voted for him. When he found out that there wasn’t the case, he tried to make one. You don’t use the law, or abuse the law, to keep a political promise.
Despite your belief, I have no personal animosity towards Donald Trump. He hasn’t done anything to me personally or to my family.
Besides, these individuals in New York City are the same people who have no problem letting off every rapist and murder so their new found love of the law seems very hollow to me
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on April 16, 2024, 09:39:49 am
It's a stupid lie at that. No one faults Trump for paying her off. It wasn't illegal. No law was broken. And it happened five years ago. Trump is in the right here. There's no reason to lie about it.
If he would’ve used campaign funds to pay her off, it would’ve been illegal, but, if I recall, he was investigated for that, and he was cleared
Ordered to be in court every day and even miss his own sons high school graduation from a city that doesn’t even require bail for violent offenders
Ultimately, the burden of proof is on those prosecuting, but this is New York City
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on April 16, 2024, 09:48:13 am
It's not so much Trump, but the zealots who champion his inner Democrat. We all knew Trump wasn't a Conservative in 2016. Trump never lied about that. He never said he wanted to drain the Swamp or end baseline budgeting. Trump never said he was going to deport illegals or stop federal funding of abortion. Not once did he ever complain about the GOP Establishment, even filling his cabinet with the worst of them. It was his sycophants who pushed those lies over and over again, and continue to do so now.
When Trump saved Mitch McConnell's career in 2014, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump gives Planned Parenthood $2 billion in taxpayer money, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump piles on $8 trillion in new debt, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump dishes out $3 trillion in cash to people so that they don't have to work during Covid, his sycophants make excuses. When Trump names the RNC Chairman as his Chief-of-Staff, his sycophants make excuses. When he fills his cabinet and inner circle with the likes of Tom Price, Jeff Sessions, Christopher Wray, Elaine Chao, Nikki Haley, etc., his sycophants make excuses. And when Trump failed to veto a single Democrat bill in four years of office, his sycophants make excuses.
Off-topic, but last night while driving back from work, I was listening to Bill O’Reilly’s show, and he had a financial person that was discussing inflation, the debt, and where things are heading on our current path
It should be mandatory listening for both MAGAs and leftists
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 01:51:17 pm
DAY 2
Trump’s trial so far: Former president seeks rare face-to-face access with jurors By Kaelan Deese April 16, 2024 7:00 am . The first day of the highly anticipated hush money trial for Donald Trump got underway in Manhattan on Monday, beginning the thorny process of finding an impartial jury to sit on a trial for the first former president indicted on criminal charges.
Trump made his way to the New York County Criminal Court on Monday morning where he is facing 34 criminal charges for allegedly falsifying business records, an alleged effort to hide hush money payments to porn star Stormy Daniels to cover up an affair she claims he had with her in 2006. The night before may have been sleepless for the former president, who at times could be seen with his eyes closed during the first full day in court.
Although no video or cameras were permitted inside the courtroom during the proceedings, information about the trial was able to be relayed near-instantaneously with the help of reporters inside the courtroom. While the only words Trump could be heard speaking were mostly muttered to his attorneys, he frequently spoke to the camera outside the courtroom and offered bystanders a thumbs-up when asked how he was doing.
Unlike the former president’s previous jury trial in the defamation case brought by writer E. Jean Carroll, Trump won’t be allowed to ditch the court throughout the multiweek event.
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/2967061/trumps-trial-so-far-former-president-seeks-rare-face-to-face-access-with-jurors/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 03:00:24 pm
DA Bragg asks judge to hold Trump in contempt of court
Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg called on Judge Juan Merchan to hold former President Trump in contempt of court on Tuesday.
Bragg filed the motion just minutes after the second day of Trump's hush money payments trial got underway in Manhattan. The motion relates to Merchan's gag order against Trump, which prohibits him from speaking publicly about prosecutors, witnesses, court officials and their families.
Bragg's motion argues Trump has "willfully violated this Court's order by publishing several social media posts attacking two known witnesses— Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels."
"Both the public and the participants in the criminal trial deserve reassurance that the judicial system stands ready to protect them and to preserve the rule of law in the face of defendant's extreme and deliberate provocations," Bragg argues in the motion.
"It is absolutely critical that defendant immediately halt any conduct that would violate the April 1 order's narrow restrictions to protect the integrity of the ongoing trial. A finding of criminal contempt, imposition of sanctions, and stark warnings from this Court are the minimum remedies necessary to achieve this indispensable objective," it continued. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 03:01:15 pm
Trump lashes out at Judge Merchan, President Biden as day 2 of trial begins
Former President Trump lashed out at Judge Juan Merchan and President Biden as he entered the courthouse for day two of his hush money payments trial on Tuesday.
Trump called Merchan a "Trump-hating judge," and claimed that Biden was pushing the charges against him in an effort to derail his presidential campaign.
"We have a Trump-hating judge...this is a trial that never should have happened. It should have been thrown out a long time ago," Trump said. "I was paying a lawyer and it was marked down as a legal expense. That's exact
"I should be in Pennsylvania, Florida, in many other states," he added. "This is all coming from the Biden White House because the guy can't put two sentences together."
Trump went on to say Judge Merchan should recuse himself from before turning to enter the court room. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 16, 2024, 03:02:11 pm
Yeah, it is a holdup without a gun. Claims are often cheaper and easier to get rid of with a settlement, an NDI, and a claim that no guilt is implied by the payoff. Avoids scandals and legal fees, and eliminates risk of no payout for the alleged victim. It only works where the pockets are deep and scandal will hurt the brand/sales/reputation.
Why don't we hear about it more often? That's where the NDI, linked to the payout comes in. Talk and no money. But she already got hers, she just got greedy (and likely has been encouraged to come forward, whether that was a fiscal incentive or not).
If paying money to make people making shit up go away was done by billionaires the line to get a payoff would be miles long...
She was paid to be quiet about their "encounter" and she was complying. Then when he ran for president she saw an opportunity to get far more than $130k from the tabloids. It is as simple as that. Billionaires don't throw money at false claims, they sic their lawyers on you destroying you economically. To throw money at them only invites more of the same.
There was also a Playboy Bunny that was paid off.
There is no indication either made any public threat to get paid off when they were asked to sign NDAs (nondisclosure agreements) by Trump's fixer lawyer. It was Trump's standard operating procedure to keep his private entertainment quiet.
Trump has lied nonstop since it became public knowledge. Trump made that mess all by himself.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 03:02:28 pm
17 minutes ago Trump shrugs off key claim in criminal case: 'I was paying a lawyer' By Priscilla DeGregory
Donald Trump shrugged off a key element of the criminal "hush money" case he faces, saying he didn't lie on business documents and was really "paying a lawyer."
Prosecutors charged the former prez with falsifying business records by claiming payments to ex-lawyer Michael Cohen were "legal expenses" rather than repayment for Cohen fronting a $130,000 payment to keep ex-porn star Stormy Daniels quiet about her alleged affair with Trump.
“I was paying a lawyer and marked it down ‘legal expense,’” Trump told reporters before entering court Tuesday morning. “An accountant I didn't know marked it down as a legal expense. That's exactly what it was. And you get indicted over that?”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 03:36:02 pm
NY Post
Quote
14 minutes ago Uptown Manhattan man makes it past first round of jury selection By Priscilla DeGregory
An Uptown Manhattan man is the first to make it past initial questioning Tuesday in Trump jury selection.
The New York native has lived on Riverside Drive for 14 years and he works for the Social Security Administration reviewing disability benefits.
He is married with no kids to a graphic designer and likes to garden and hike.
The man has an eclectic career background, including having a law degree and previously working as a locksmith.
He could still be dismissed when he's eventually questioned by lawyers on both sides.
Quote
Upper West Side woman second to clear initial questioning in jury selection By Priscilla DeGregory
An Upper West Side woman has made it through the first round of questioning.
She works for a senior living company and is unmarried and has three kids -- one of whom works for the postal service.
She could still be dismissed when questioned by Trump's lawyers and prosecutors.
Quote
6 minutes ago Chelsea man third prospective juror to clear first round of questioning By Priscilla DeGregory
A man who has lived in Chelsea for the past five years and who is originally from Oregon is the third person to make it through preliminary questioning Tuesday during jury selection.
The man is a corporate lawyer and he likes to run and hike in his free time.
He said he gets his news from Google, the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times.
Quote
6 minutes ago Fourth prospective juror to make it through preliminary questioning is Hell's Kitchen man By Priscilla DeGregory
The fourth person to be clear in initial questioning during Trump jury selection is a man who is originally from Mexico and lives in Hell's Kitchen.
The man became a US citizen in 2017 and works in marketing.
He isn't married and has no children. But he has a dog and likes to travel, scuba dive and ski.
He gets his news from an array of outlets including Google, Facebook, the Huffington Post, the New York Times and MSNBC.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 16, 2024, 03:37:40 pm
Trump lashes out at Judge Merchan, President Biden as day 2 of trial begins
Former President Trump lashed out at Judge Juan Merchan and President Biden as he entered the courthouse for day two of his hush money payments trial on Tuesday.
Trump called Merchan a "Trump-hating judge," and claimed that Biden was pushing the charges against him in an effort to derail his presidential campaign.
"We have a Trump-hating judge...this is a trial that never should have happened. It should have been thrown out a long time ago," Trump said. "I was paying a lawyer and it was marked down as a legal expense. That's exact
"I should be in Pennsylvania, Florida, in many other states," he added. "This is all coming from the Biden White House because the guy can't put two sentences together."
Trump went on to say Judge Merchan should recuse himself from before turning to enter the court room. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
"Lashed out..."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 16, 2024, 03:49:06 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 03:55:17 pm
Quote
14 minutes ago Man who's read Trump's books makes it through first round of questioning By Priscilla DeGregory
The sixth person to make it through initial questioning Tuesday was a man who has read several of Donald Trump's books including "The Art of the Deal."
But the man, of Battery Park, said that wouldn't "prevent" him from being fair and impartial.
"I feel no one is above the law," he said.
He works in sales and has lived in the Big Apple for 30 years. He's originally from Boston.
He is on the board of his synagogue and is a member of the ACLU.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 03:59:41 pm
9 minutes ago Prosecutors, Trump lawyers start questioning group of 18 potential jurors By Priscilla DeGregory
Lawyers are starting to question a group of 18 jurors who've made it past the first round of questioning by a judge.
They are slated to be questioned separately for 30 minutes first by prosecutors and then by Trump's lawyers -- in a process called voir dire.
"No one is suggesting that you can’t be a fair juror because you have heard of Donald Trump," prosecutor Joshua Steinglass said to kick off voir dire. "This case is about did this man violate the law."
“This is case is really not about how you feel about Donald Trump. It's about the rule of law and whether Donald Trump broke it."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 04:21:46 pm
9 minutes ago Trump 'looks exactly like he does on TV': dismissed juror By Priscilla DeGregory
A woman who was dismissed from jury selection at the trial against Donald Trump Tuesday said the former president "looks exactly like he does on TV."
Kara McGee was let go because of a conflict in her schedule at work in cybersecurity.
Excused juror Kara McGee speaks to reporters on her way out of court in Manhattan on Tuesday.
"I don’t like him," she said of the former commander-in-chief.AP
Outside court, McGee said she "hilariously" thought the presumptive Republican presidential nominee "looks exactly like he does on TV" after making eye contact with him when she raised the issue of her schedule.
"I don’t like him," she said to CNN of the former commander-in-chief. "I don’t approve of what he did as president, but the right to a fair trial is extremely important."
She said while she realized the trial is an important milestone in history, she also realized Trump is "just a dude," the outlet reported.
With Post wires
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 16, 2024, 05:13:20 pm
Trump campaigned on how great "New York values" were, now he's about to get a firsthand experience with them...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 05:22:21 pm
April 16, 2024 ‘Hush money’ trial kicks off, and judge allows the infamous Billy Bush locker room talk to be admitted By Jack Hellner
Can somebody please explain to me how what President Trump said to Billy Bush in 2005 has anything to do with the Stormy Daniels trial in New York? Here’s what Forbes reported yesterday:
Former President Donald Trump’s first criminal trial will include his inappropriate comments about women that surfaced ahead of the 2016 election, Judge Juan Merchan ruled Monday as proceedings got underway[.]
Even if Trump had actually had an affair with Stormy (both parties have denied this, although Daniels has flip-flopped), the comments to Bush would have still been irrelevant. The crass locker room talk between Bush and Trump certainly does not have anything to do with the supposed $130,000 nuisance payment and Non-Disclosure Agreement.
What Trump said on the tape certainly wasn’t “election interference,” which is what the prosecution alleges in this case, so the purpose of allowing the locker room talk with Bush is meant to further bias the jury, nothing more.
Nuisance payments and NDAs are executed all the time, legally. They are clearly meant to hide things from other employees, the public, stockholders, banks, the media, and the government among others.
more https://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2024/04/hush_money_trial_kicks_off_and_judge_allows_the_infamous_billy_bush_locker_room_talk_to_be_admitted.html
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 05:32:14 pm
Donald J. Trump
@realDonaldTrump
This conflicted, Trump Hating Judge won’t let me respond to people that are on TV lying and spewing hate all day long. He is running rough shod over my lawyers and legal team. The New York System of “Justice” is being decimated by critics from all over the World. I want to speak, or at least be able to respond. Election Interference! RIGGED, UNCONSTITUTIONAL TRIAL! Take off the Gag Order!!!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 06:14:19 pm
Exclusive — Trump Lawyer: Prosecution Seeks to ‘Stack the Deck Against’ Trump in Jury Selection
The prosecution in former President Donald Trump’s criminal trial is attempting to “stack the deck” against Trump in the selection, Jesse Binnall said.
more https://www.breitbart.com/radio/2024/04/16/exclusive-trump-lawyer-prosecution-seeks-stack-deck-against-trump-jury-selection/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 16, 2024, 06:18:58 pm
It's just a matter of time before they fine him again or sentence him to jail time -- then he'll appeal.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 06:23:01 pm
a minute ago Juror to Trump lawyer: 'He's targeted some females' By Kyle Schnitzer
Earlier today, Trump's attorney, Todd Blanche, was questioning the prospective jurors when one member of the jury pool said that Trump "targeted some females."
"I'm a female, he's targeted some females, so I would say some of my friends have strong opinions on him," the female juror said.
She then said: "I know there have been opinions that he doesn’t treat females correctly.”
However, the juror added that she could remain impartial and didn't know the facts of the case.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 06:28:34 pm
Quote
an hour ago Potential juror says if Trump doesn't testify, it doesn't mean he's guilty By Priscilla DeGregory
One potential juror said that no one should hold it against Donald Trump if he chooses not to testify at trial.
“If he decides not to speak," the impassioned woman said, waving her hands, "that’s your right, you can’t presume that makes him guilty."
“It’s really, the prosecutor’s the one that has to present those facts and prove them, but as I said, he has the right not to say them," the older, white-haired woman said.
“I don’t think I could have said it better myself," Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche responded during questioning of 18 potential jurors.
Trump has said he plans to testify in his own defense. But the judge will eventually instruct the jurors that they cannot hold it against Trump if he chooses not to take the witness stand.
Quote
'He speaks his mind' and other things some prospective jurors think of Trump By Priscilla DeGregory and Ben Kochman
Two potential jurors said they admired that Donald Trump speaks his mind and that you never have to guess where he stands.
"I mean, he speaks his mind, come on, what can you say about that? If I told you all the time what I thought about people — I want to say some things to people, but my mama said be nice," one woman told Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche during questioning of a pool of prospective jurors.
Another woman said that while she tries to avoid politics, she appreciates that "President Trump speaks his mind and I’d rather that than someone who's in office who you don’t know what they’re thinking."
Another woman, a 50-year Big Apple resident, said she couldn't deny that Trump left his mark on the city's real estate landscape.
Still, she said, "There is very little we probably agree on policy-wise."
"Sometimes I get frustrated with it like anybody does," the woman admitted. "I have family members that support him. We manage to have decent conversations about that."
Quote
Trump lawyer probes potential jurors' feelings about former prez, political leanings By Priscilla DeGregory
Donald Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche attempted to probe potential jurors on their political leanings and feelings about the former president in a series of questions to a group of 18.
One man said he doesn't follow politics because his "wife does not like the news" and added he has "stronger opinions about local stuff."
Blanche asked a Mexican-born American man whether his experience becoming a US citizen would color his work if seated as a juror.
"Feelings are not facts," the man hedged. "I'm very grateful to be an American and that happened on the first year that he was president."
Blanche and another man went back and forth as the lawyer tried to glean his political leanings while the man tried to dodge.
“I’ll say I’m a Democrat, so there you go, but I walk in there and he’s a defendant and that’s all he is," said the man.
One man said he's been following Trump news and added, "I was a big fan of 'The Apprentice' when I was in middle school," to laughs from the courtroom.
As for Trump's time in the White House, "Some things I agreed with, some things I disagreed with," he said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 06:35:00 pm
Bragg threatens 30 days of jail time in Trump contempt of court motion Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg called on Judge Juan Merchan to threaten former President Trump with 30 days in jail as part of his contempt of court motion on Tuesday.
Bragg is urging Manhattan Judge Merchan to warn Trump that "future violations" of the gag order against him can be punished "not only with additional fines, but also with a term of incarceration of up to thirty days."
Merchan last month imposed a gag order on Trump, due to his "prior extrajudicial statements." Merchan said they established "a sufficient risk to the administration of justice."
Merchan ordered that Trump cannot make or direct others to make public statements about witnesses concerning their potential participation or about counsel in the case — other than Bragg — or about court staff, DA staff or family members of staff.
Merchan also ordered that Trump cannot make or direct others to make public statements about any prospective juror or chosen juror.
During the first day of the criminal trial and start of jury selection, Manhattan prosecutors suggested Trump had violated the order on three separate occasions on social media. Prosecutors said Trump should be fined $3,000 for the three alleged violations of the gag order — $1,000 for each violation.
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News' Brooke Singman Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 07:01:25 pm
11 minutes ago Judge accuses Trump of trying to intimidate juror called to clarify 'anti-Trump' posts By kschnitzernyp
Donald Trump was accused by Justice Juan Merchan of intimidating a juror who was called in to clarify his attorney's claims of alleged "anti-Trump" Facebook posts.
The judge told Trump's attorney Todd Blanche that Trump was uttering something to the juror who was "12 feet away from your client."
"Your client was audibly uttering something," the judge said, "I don't know what he was uttering..."
He then offered a stiff warning: "I won’t tolerate that. I won’t have any jurors intimidated in this courtroom. I will be crystal clear."
The flareup came after Blanche challenged Juror No. 1 for cause because he claimed that the woman had made two Facebook posts on the day of the 2020 presidential election, when "President Trump lost the election."
The juror had previously said they did not have any biases against Trump, Blanche said.
Another Trump attorney, Susan Necheles, said the post was of a "clearly anti-Trump event."
“This is clearly an anti-Trump event that she’s out celebrating and partying at," Necheles said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 16, 2024, 07:07:35 pm
11 minutes ago Judge accuses Trump of trying to intimidate juror called to clarify 'anti-Trump' posts By kschnitzernyp
Donald Trump was accused by Justice Juan Merchan of intimidating a juror who was called in to clarify his attorney's claims of alleged "anti-Trump" Facebook posts.
The judge told Trump's attorney Todd Blanche that Trump was uttering something to the juror who was "12 feet away from your client."
"Your client was audibly uttering something," the judge said, "I don't know what he was uttering..."
He then offered a stiff warning: "I won’t tolerate that. I won’t have any jurors intimidated in this courtroom. I will be crystal clear."
The flareup came after Blanche challenged Juror No. 1 for cause because he claimed that the woman had made two Facebook posts on the day of the 2020 presidential election, when "President Trump lost the election."
The juror had previously said they did not have any biases against Trump, Blanche said.
Another Trump attorney, Susan Necheles, said the post was of a "clearly anti-Trump event."
“This is clearly an anti-Trump event that she’s out celebrating and partying at," Necheles said.
I understand that Trump's personality is to fight back and right wrongs, but he's facing jail time if he is found in contempt. At that point IMHO they'll lock him up and they'll keep him locked up as long as they can. He'd be best to keep his composure and remain silent.
I believe part of him thinks his base would start rioting and prove that they're making a mistake throwing charges at him -- I think his base would remain silent.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 07:08:34 pm
2 minutes ago Trump's side wins a bid to have a potential juror dismissed for 'anti-Trump' post By Priscilla DeGregory and Kyle Schnitzer
Judge Juan Merchan approved Trump lawyer Todd Blanche's request to have a potential juror tossed out of the jury pool over allegedly anti-Trump posts.
The juror posted in 2017 on Facebook: "Good news!! Trump lost his court battle on his unlawful travel ban!!!”
Merchan said if the post had ended there he might not have granted Blanche's bid but it went on to say: "Get him out, lock him up."
"This is a person who has expressed the desire…that Mr. Trump be locked up," Merchan said, noting that Trump faces potential time behind bars if convicted at trial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on April 16, 2024, 07:14:01 pm
2 minutes ago Trump's side wins a bid to have a potential juror dismissed for 'anti-Trump' post By Priscilla DeGregory and Kyle Schnitzer
Judge Juan Merchan approved Trump lawyer Todd Blanche's request to have a potential juror tossed out of the jury pool over allegedly anti-Trump posts.
The juror posted in 2017 on Facebook: "Good news!! Trump lost his court battle on his unlawful travel ban!!!”
Merchan said if the post had ended there he might not have granted Blanche's bid but it went on to say: "Get him out, lock him up."
"This is a person who has expressed the desire…that Mr. Trump be locked up," Merchan said, noting that Trump faces potential time behind bars if convicted at trial.
Well...one thing for sure.
No current Briefer will ever be selected for the jury. /S
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 16, 2024, 07:23:38 pm
No current Briefer will ever be selected for the jury. /S
They have lots of homeless people to choose from that are isolated from current events...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 07:48:21 pm
9 minutes ago Six jurors selected so far to serve on Trump hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
Six jurors have been selected to serve on the jury of the Trump hush money trial.
The first batch of potential jurors started at 96 people on Monday, but after several challenges by both parties, only six were picked for the six-week trial.
Justice Juan Merchan just called to bring in all jurors, and the six that have been selected.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 16, 2024, 08:44:30 pm
a minute ago Juror to Trump lawyer: 'He's targeted some females' By Kyle Schnitzer
Earlier today, Trump's attorney, Todd Blanche, was questioning the prospective jurors when one member of the jury pool said that Trump "targeted some females."
"I'm a female, he's targeted some females, so I would say some of my friends have strong opinions on him," the female juror said.
She then said: "I know there have been opinions that he doesn’t treat females correctly.”
However, the juror added that she could remain impartial and didn't know the facts of the case.
Sure she can. /s I am so glad that I can't be part of that jury. It will turn into a bigger circus than OJ.
Best wishes and prayers for you Pres. Trump. I fear the outcome.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: NavyCanDo on April 16, 2024, 09:09:43 pm
6 to. 8 weeks off the campaign trail and another 6 weeks waiting for the appeal trial? Biden campaigning every minute of it.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 09:29:47 pm
an hour ago Here's what we know so far about the 6 jurors selected for Trump's hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
Here are some small nuggets on the six jurors that have been selected for Donald Trump's hush money trial.
The foreperson -- or leader of the jury -- is married, lives in West Harlem, works in sales and is originally from Ireland.
Another juror is a young black woman who has friends with opinions about Trump, but said she’s not a political person. She said that she respected that Trump "always speaks his mind."
An Oregon native who works as a corporate lawyer at Gunderson Dettmer. He said they enjoy hiking and running. He has lived in Chelsea for five years.
A female software engineer who lives in Chelsea.
A 40-year-old, Lower East Side resident who said he found Trump "fascinating and mysterious." "He walks into a room and he sets people off one way or another," the juror said, who works as an IT consultant. "I find that really interesting. Really, this one guy can do all of this. Wow, that’s what I think."
A female oncology nurse at Memorial Sloan Kettering who lives on the Upper East Side.
Twelve people, along with a few alternates, will eventually be selected to serve on the jury.
Jury selection has resumed with a fresh panel of jurors to fill in the remaining seats.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 16, 2024, 09:33:29 pm
Report: Judge Allows Juror Who ‘Celebrated Trump’s Loss in 2020’ to Stay in Pool
The judge reportedly allowed a juror who celebrated Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss on social media to stay in the jury pool.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: NavyCanDo on April 16, 2024, 09:49:21 pm
Trying to get a mental image of Trump in Prison. Body Ripped from the weight lifting, neck tattoo, do rag on his head, naaaa just not seeing it. But it's entirely possible and very probable the way things are set up.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 16, 2024, 09:52:01 pm
Blanche asked a Mexican-born American man whether his experience becoming a US citizen would color his work if seated as a juror.
"Feelings are not facts," the man hedged. "I'm very grateful to be an American and that happened on the first year that he was president."
. . .
One man said he's been following Trump news and added, "I was a big fan of 'The Apprentice' when I was in middle school," to laughs from the courtroom.
As for Trump's time in the White House, "Some things I agreed with, some things I disagreed with," he said.
I would want both of these persons on the jury if I'm Trump's lawyer.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 17, 2024, 01:14:39 pm
DAY 3
Wednesday reprieve: Why Trump will get a midweek break from his hush money trial
Former President Donald Trump will not be in court in Manhattan on Wednesday or subsequent Wednesdays for his hush money trial.
The trial will not have proceedings scheduled on Wednesdays to allow Judge Juan Merchan to deal with other court proceedings he has outside of the hush money trial. The procedure to mark one day of the week to take off from proceedings in a trial is common practice.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 17, 2024, 06:33:36 pm
Wednesday reprieve: Why Trump will get a midweek break from his hush money trial By Jack Birle April 17, 2024 8:28 am .
Former President Donald Trump will not be in court in Manhattan on Wednesday or subsequent Wednesdays for his hush money trial.
The trial will not have proceedings scheduled on Wednesdays to allow Judge Juan Merchan to deal with other court proceedings he has outside of the hush money trial. The procedure to mark one day of the week to take off from proceedings in a trial is common practice.
While Wednesdays are not expected to have any proceedings related to the hush money trial, the judge said he will not hold any sessions in court unless there are significant delays in the trial, which is expected to last six weeks.
Trump, who is required to be in court throughout the criminal trial, may use the off days in the middle of the week to his advantage as he campaigns for a second term in the White House. Trump lawyer Todd Blanche told the judge on Monday that the former president’s campaign has “taken pains” to put events on Wednesdays to accommodate the trial schedule, according to Politico.
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2968973/wednesday-reprieve-why-trump-will-get-midweek-break-hush-money-trial/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 17, 2024, 08:39:31 pm
Bragg wants to cross-examine Trump on civil cases in hush money trial by Zach Schonfeld and Ella Lee - 04/17/24 3:57 PM ET
If former President Trump chooses to testify in his hush money trial, New York prosecutors want to cross-examine him about his various civil lawsuits.
In court papers signed last month but not made public until Wednesday, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s (D) office said it would seek to question Trump about 13 court rulings against him or his businesses to impeach his credibility.
The list runs the gamut of Trump’s recent civil cases, referencing his recent business fraud trial that ended in a nearly half-billion-dollar payout, gag order violations and jury verdicts. Trump’s lawyers have indicated they oppose prosecutors’ request.
Trump has signaled an openness to testifying in his hush money trial, which unlike those past civil lawsuits is a criminal case.
But doing so would mark a rare step for a criminal defendant. Prosecutors cannot force him to testify, and each selected juror has committed to the judge that they won’t hold it against Trump if he doesn’t.
Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the trial, will hold a hearing later this week to determine the proper scope of prosecutors’ cross-examination of Trump. Known as a Sandoval hearing, the ruling is designed to help Trump’s legal team make an informed decision about whether to have him testify.
In the newly public court papers, Bragg said he wants to raise the $354 million penalty Trump was ordered to pay after a New York judge found he conspired to alter his net worth for tax and insurance benefits, writing Trump “repeatedly and persistently” falsified business records, issued false financial statements and conspired to commit insurance fraud.
The Manhattan district attorney also intends to highlight Trump’s violations of a gag order in that case, which barred him from publicly talking about any court staff. The former president racked up $15,000 in fines for skirting the judge’s directive, and when Trump was asked to take the stand to explain himself, the judge determined that his testimony “rings hollow and untrue.”
Prosecutors said they would also seek to question Trump about the jury’s verdicts in two lawsuits brought by advice columnist E. Jean Carroll. One jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing Carroll in the 1990s, and a subsequent jury ordered Trump to pay $83.3 million for defaming her by denying her story when she came forward.
more https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4600918-bragg-wants-to-cross-examine-trump-on-civil-cases-in-hush-money-trial/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 17, 2024, 08:50:08 pm
Time to fight back? How? When all the cards are stacked against you and you will be charged with yet another crime or held in contempt for trying to defend yourself!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: berdie on April 17, 2024, 08:55:27 pm
Here I am being blonde again! I didn't think you could bring prior convictions into an unrelated trial? :shrug:
I was unfortunate to be a juror on a teenage murder trial. After the trial we learned of prior convictions/arrests that could very well have swayed the sentencing.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 17, 2024, 09:07:43 pm
Here I am being blonde again! I didn't think you could bring prior convictions into an unrelated trial? :shrug:
I was unfortunate to be a juror on a teenage murder trial. After the trial we learned of prior convictions/arrests that could very well have swayed the sentencing.
You can if you have a chance to Cross-Examine. I saw it happen when I was a Juror. We did not know anything about the prior drug raps until the Defendant took the stand and the Prosecutor asked about it in the Cross Exam.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: berdie on April 17, 2024, 09:45:25 pm
You can if you have a chance to Cross-Examine. I saw it happen when I was a Juror. We did not know anything about the prior drug raps until the Defendant took the stand and the Prosecutor asked about it in the Cross Exam.
Interesting. The defendant didn't take the stand during the trial I was an unhappy juror on. Or maybe the prosecutor was inept. :shrug:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 17, 2024, 09:56:12 pm
It's totally up to the Defense, whether or not the Defendant testifies. It's possible this guy's Attorney was surprised about the priors.
My sister is an attorney in Florida and she always says that when she has a client, she wants to know everything about them and tells them to tell her everything and to be honest with her so that there are no surprises in court
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 18, 2024, 12:31:02 am
My sister is an attorney in Florida and she always says that when she has a client, she wants to know everything about them and tells them to tell her everything and to be honest with her so that there are no surprises in court
Should be a given. Surprises piss off Defense Attorneys.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on April 18, 2024, 12:34:39 am
Should be a given. Surprises piss off Defense Attorneys.
She told us once that there’s a good percentage of clients that are too embarrassed to tell her everything but are surprised when the prosecution brings up the issues
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 01:06:36 pm
Michael Cohen, witness in Trump’s trial, goes on media blitz amid credibility questions By Ashley Oliver April 18, 2024 6:00 am .
Michael Cohen, a key witness in Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s hush money case against former President Donald Trump, has become increasingly vocal ahead of his anticipated testimony in the trial.
Cohen has participated in a string of recent media interviews in which he acknowledges that Trump’s defense team will attempt to undermine his credibility during the trial, including by showcasing Cohen’s felony convictions and incentives Cohen may have to lie about Trump.
His media blitz comes as Trump’s defense attorneys signal they plan to paint Cohen as an unreliable witness during the trial.
“One of the things that Donald and his legal team are trying to do is every day it’s to discredit me, and they think that that’s a winning strategy for getting an overturn of whatever conviction that the jury may or may not determine,” Cohen said in a television interview over the weekend. “That’s not the way that you run a trial. Have your own defense.”
Cohen added that the media’s portrayal of him as a “key witness” was not accurate and claimed that he was merely “the narrator of the story.”
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2970187/michael-cohen-witness-trumps-trial-media-blitz-credibility-questions/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 01:09:21 pm
Trump trial: Prosecutors unveil plans to cross-examine Trump in hush money case By Kaelan Deese April 17, 2024 4:44 pm .
Prosecutors in the New York criminal hush money case against Donald Trump filed a notice Wednesday outlining their plans to question the former president about his previous civil trials to undermine his credibility.
The so-called Sandoval notice by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg includes “facts” pertaining to the civil fraud trial against the Trump Organization brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James (D), and the two “sexual abuse” defamation lawsuits brought against him by writer E. Jean Carroll.
“If the defendant chooses to testify, the People intend to inquire regarding the following,” Bragg’s office wrote in a filing dated March 10, which became public on Wednesday.
Bragg, an elected Democrat, has charged Trump with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records for what prosecutors say was the illegal concealment of payments to hide an alleged affair with porn star Stormy Daniels. He began the list by noting Trump, on Feb. 16, was ordered to pay upwards of $354 million in a civil fraud case for “repeatedly and persistently falsifying business records” and “misstating the value of his assets for economic benefit.”
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2969777/trump-trial-prosecutors-cross-examine-trump-hush-money-case/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 01:23:18 pm
April 18, 2024 09:19am ET Trump hush money trial enters day 3 with 7 jurors confirmed
Former President Trump will return to a Manhattan courthouse for the third day of his hush money payment trial Thursday. Jury selection will continue with seven jurors confirmed and five more awaiting selection.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 01:44:14 pm
6 minutes ago NYC nurse excused from jury after saying she cannot be 'fair and unbiased' By Ben Kochman
An Upper East Side nurse who had been "Juror No. 2" has been excused after saying she could not be "fair." “Yesterday alone, I had friends, colleagues, and family push things to my phone, questioning my identity as a juror. I don’t think at this point I can be fair and unbiased," the nurse said.
Justice Juan Merchan then dismissed her.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 01:49:08 pm
22 minutes ago Trump takes a phone call while sitting in courtroom By Kyle Schnitzer
For a brief moment, Donald Trump took a phone call on his cellphone while sitting at the defense table.
Taking phone calls in a courtroom is not permitted.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 01:55:00 pm
Judge redacts two questions from juror questionnaire By Kyle Schnitzer
Justice Merchan said he will redact two questions from the juror questionnaire after prosecutors said that certain questions could out the identity of jurors.
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass suggested the prospective jurors could not answer questions about their current and former employers, which he said can make them easily identified.
Trump's attorneys, Todd Blanche and Susan Necheles, objected to not getting that information
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Wingnut on April 18, 2024, 02:02:09 pm
What if they held a jury trail and no one was empaneled?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 02:44:40 pm
3 minutes ago Half of new 96 jurors excused after saying they can't be fair and impartial By Kyle Schnitzer
Half of the 96 prospective jurors who were introduced Wednesday were excused from serving in the Trump hush money trial after saying they couldn't be fair and impartial.
Justice Merchan welcomed a fresh batch of 96 jurors inside the Manhattan courtroom Wednesday morning, but 48 jurors were excused.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 02:45:24 pm
9 more jurors cut from Trump trial due By Kyle Schnitzer
An additional nine more jurors were let go from serving in the Trump hush money trial for reasons beyond not being fair and impartial.
That means 57 jurors were excused Wednesday morning, leaving 39 potential jurors to join the remaining six selected jurors.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 02:47:34 pm
5 minutes ago Prosecutors accuse Trump of violating gag order 7 more times: 'It's ridiculous' By Ben Kochman
The DA's office slammed Trump Thursday for allegedly breaching a court order that bars him from disparaging jurors and witnesses in the case "seven more times" in the past few days, calling it "ridiculous."
Trump's most "disturbing post" — in light of a juror reporting Thursday morning that she was intimidated by media attention on the case — came last night, prosecutor Chris Conroy said.
Trump had re-posted a quote, from Fox News host Jesse Watters, which said "they are catching undercover liberal activists lying to the judge” in order to get on the Trump jury.
Trump's lawyer Emil Bove claimed Trump did not make any "willful violations" of the judge's gag order, which has some "ambiguities."
Conroy said the posts clearly flout the order and asked Justice Merchan to hold Trump in contempt of court, which could lead to fines and theoretically jail time of up to 30 days.
"It's ridiculous. It has to stop," Conroy said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 02:50:01 pm
Trump lawyers fume as judge no longer requires jurors to reveal where they work By Kyle Schnitzer
Justice Juan Merchan said he will redact two questions from the juror questionnaire after prosecutors said that certain questions could reveal the identity of jurors.
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass suggested the prospective jurors could not answer questions about their current and former employers, which he said can make them easily identifiable.
Donald Trump's attorneys, Todd Blanche and Susan Necheles, objected to not getting that information. They'll get it now, but it will be redacted in the court transcript.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 03:01:39 pm
5 minutes ago First prospective juror worked as a law clerk at Manhattan courthouse By Kyle Schnitzer
Prospective juror in Seat 1 is an attorney who previously worker as a law clerk at a Manhattan courthouse.
The Upper East Side resident said they had discussed the Trump hush money trial “at length” with coworkers and her boss, in addition to reading “the Mark Pomerantz book.”
She liked to play tennis and has never served on a jury before.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 03:40:16 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Lifelong New Yorker uses a flip phone, loves his hometown tabloids
A 34-year law enforcement veteran who works for New York City's courts is a lifelong New Yorker with season tickets to the New York Rangers, still uses a flip phone and loves his hometown tabloids.
The Hells Kitchen lifer ("I was born there, I was raised there, and I still live there.") said he can't listen to podcasts because he doesn't have a smartphone and opts for a flip phone
He also loves his locals papers.
“The only publications I read are the Daily News and The Post," the potential juror said, notably leaving The New York Times off his list.
A member of the Knights of Columbus, he's been married for 35 years and said he likes rooting for the Yankees.
Quote
7 minutes ago Lebanon native who does yoga and meditates 'every morning' clears first round By Ben Kochman
A retired "wealth manager" who has lived on the Upper East Side since 1980 after coming to the US from Lebanon -- and who said he does yoga and mediates "every morning" has passed initial screening.
The man said he reads the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, watches CNBC and the BBC, and enjoys fly fishing and skiing.
Quote
9 minutes ago Hedge fund guy who follows Trump on social media clears first round of jury selection By Ben Kochman
A man who works at a hedge fund, follows Trump on X and Instagram and who read "The Art of the Deal" has cleared the first round of jury screening.
Quote
10 minutes ago Trump appears to be paying close attention to potential jurors By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump appears to be paying close attention to prospective jurors seated in the jury box as they answers their questionnaires to the court.
At one point during their responses, Trump shifted his chair to get a better look at the potential panelists. He has his head tilted back and is leaning in his chair as he cranes his neck to get a closer look while they speak.
Quote
14 minutes ago Security engineer who likes listening to comedy passes screening By Kyle Schnitzer
A security engineer living in the West Village who likes to listen to comedy has passed the initial screening.
Quote
21 minutes ago A widow subscribes to NYT for the crossword puzzles gets initial approval By Kyle Schnitzer
A widow, who lives in “The Village,” subscribes to the New York Times “mostly for the crossword puzzle.”
She said she read Donald Trump’s book, “The Art of the Deal,” decades ago, and has passed the initial jury selection screening.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 04:14:30 pm
Quote
3 minutes ago Team Trump refutes reports that he took a phone call inside the courtroom
A Trump rep refuted reports from court that he took a phone call inside the courtroom this morning, claiming to a Post politics reporter that "the president did not take or make a phone call" — but was turning his device off.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 04:15:20 pm
A juror who was excused from former President Trump's hush money payment trial spoke with Fox News moments after leaving the courthouse on Thursday.
The juror, who identified herself only as "Kat," said she had raised her hand during questions from Judge Juan Merchan to indicate that she felt she could not be impartial in the case.
She declined to explain why she felt she could not be impartial, saying it was "personal."
She went on to say she and other jurors brought in for the trial were "shocked and frozen" when they discovered it was Trump's hush money case.
"It's a big case. It's a historical thing, right? So, it's very important. Our role was very important there as jurors," she added.
The juror was one of dozens of jury candidates who were dismissed on Thursday as Trump's legal team and prosecutors questioned the latest round of candidates in an effort to fill the remaining six jury seats.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 04:30:09 pm
8 minutes ago 'Juror No.4' excused after prosecutors raised concerns that he hid past arrest -- we're down to five jurors now By Ben Kochman
A man who had occupied the fourth seat on the jury has been excused after prosecutors this morning raised concerns that he may have failed to disclose a past arrest.
Justice Merchan's ruling came after a four-minute conference at the bench in which the man occasionally used his hands to talk, and at one point appeared animated and annoyed.
“Let me ask you a question,” the juror could be heard to say as he looked and gestured at the prosecutors. “Do you all feel this way?”
The rest of the conversation could not be heard.
When the court went back on the record, Merchan directed that the juror be tossed.
After starting the day with seven jurors, we're now down to five.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 04:52:18 pm
Quote
a minute ago Potential jurors listens to behavioral psychology podcasts: 'Niche hobby'
An Ohio native who works in e-commerce for an eyewear company calls listening to behavioral psychology podcasts his "niche hobby."
The prospective juror has lived in Murray Hill for the past six years.
Quote
4 minutes ago 'Art of the Deal' reader who works out 'a lot' makes it past first round
A financial buff who read Trump's book "The Art of the Deal" and loves to work out has passed initial screening.
He also has relatives who were close with the former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Democrat.
Asked about his hobbies, he responded: "Tennis, family, and food."
"I work out a lot," he added.
He also said he reads and watches several financial news outlets.
Quote
10 minutes ago Prospective juror says she doesn't pay attention to the news 'too closely'
A New Jersey native living on the Upper East Side said she doesn't read or watch any news — and the potential juror has worked as a speech therapist for five years.
“I don’t watch any news or follow it too closely," she said, adding she subscribes to CNN and New York Times newsletters.
She passed the initial phase of jury questioning.
Quote
15 minutes ago Paralegal at 'major' law firm and who was mugged once clears first round By Ben Kochman
A paralegal at a "major international law firm" whose husband is a realtor and who was mugged once just passed initial juror screening.
She reads the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Washington Post.
Quote
19 minutes ago We're going backwards here — started the day with 7 jurors, now down to 5 By Ben Kochman
With the dismissals of jurors who had been in seat Nos. 2 and 4, we're now down to five jurors.
We started the day with seven. It would appear that the judge's goal of holding opening statements Monday morning is now in doubt.
Quote
22 minutes ago Attorney who was once pickpocketed in Paris passes initial juror questioning By Kyle Schnitzer
An attorney living in Gramercy Park once had her phone pickpocketed in Paris and works for a "media entertainment and amusement park company" has passed the initial round of juror questioning.
Her vague job description comes after Justice Juan Merchan advised the press to use "common sense" when reporting details about potential jurors — after a juror was excused when they said they felt intimidated by the press's coverage of Donald Trump's hush money trial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 04:53:32 pm
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a few seconds ago Accountant who lives in Gramercy passes screening By Ben Kochman
An accountant who lives in Gramercy has also made it through.
He said he reads the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and sometimes Fox News or Fox Business.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 18, 2024, 05:13:03 pm
:bkmk:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 05:27:21 pm
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23 minutes ago Potential jurist once had her apartment robbed, close friend convicted of financial fraud By Kyle Schnitzer
One of the prospective jurors in Donald Trump's hush money case said she once had her apartment robbed and had a close friend convicted of financial fraud.
The Upper Manhattan woman works as a product development manager for a multinational apparel company, a job she's held for 20 years. She is originally from California.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 05:27:31 pm
23 minutes ago 18 potential jurors have now made it past first round of screening as we break for lunch By Ben Kochman
The court has 18 prospective panelists ready to be questioned in groups by prosecutors and Donald Trump's lawyers after the lunch break. Two more possible jurors passed the first round of vetting just now:
-- A physical therapist who listens to "faith-based" podcasts and enjoys hiking and other outdoor sports with her husband and their dog.
-- A woman who is an investment analyst who grew up in England and Hong Kong.
We'll be back around 2:15 p.m.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 07:29:40 pm
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3 minutes ago Prospective juror says her son works for Hakeem Jeffries By Kyle Schnitzer
A prospective juror in Donald Trump's "hush money" trial said her son just got a job working for House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) in Washington.
Juror No. 2, who lives on the Upper West Side, told Trump's attorney Susan Necheles that her son was hired by the New York City Democrat, who represents Brooklyn, after graduating college recently, during the defense's grilling of the potential panelists.
Jeffries has repeatedly denied the legitimacy of the former president's 2016 election results.
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19 minutes ago Every prospective juror says they can deliver a verdict By Kyle Schnitzer
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass, for about a half-hour, just quizzed the 18 prospective jurors, who all said they can deliver a verdict in Donald Trump's hush money trial — guilty or not guilty.
Steinglass ran down the line of the potential jurists, each of whom said they could, in the words of Steinglass, "call it like you see it."
Now, Trump's attorney Susan Necheles is questioning the panelists.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 08:38:19 pm
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Trump beams after prospective juror -- a lifelong NYer -- thanks him for Wollman Rink By Kyle Schnitzer
One of the prospective jurors, a lifelong New Yorker, said he was grateful to Trump for fixing Wollman Rink in Central Park.
"As a wannabe hockey player, I still thank him for fixing that Wollman Rink that nobody couldn’t fix," the law enforcement veteran said, referring to the ice rink in the Manhattan park.
A wide smile flashed across Trump's face after the hockey fan's answer.
The man previously said he was a die-hard Rangers fan and attended Yankees games.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 08:48:39 pm
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a minute ago 12 jurors now selected for Trump's hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
All 12 jurors have now been selected for Trump's hush money trial.
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12 minutes ago Two new jurors have been seated— bringing total back to 7 By Ben Kochman
Two new panelists have officially joined the jury.
One of the new jurors, is an investment banker who lives with his wife, follows Trump on Twitter and listens to Michael Cohen's podcast. The man said he will be fair and impartial.
The second new juror is originally from California but now lives on the Upper West Side working as a security engineer. He's married with kids and does metal-and wood-working. He has some relatives who are lawyers.
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15 minutes ago Trump attorney says potential panelist slept over her house By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump's attorney Susan Nechles said that a prospective juror who said that she met the attorney some 15 years ago actually slept over at her home.
"She stayed at my house overnight," Nechles said, who asked the judge to strike the juror "for cause."
The woman was then brought by into the courtroom by Justice Juan Merchan.
She was questioned about the overnight stay and her husband's book review of Maggie Haberman's, "Confidence Man," which Necheles labeled as a "disturbing" review.
“About 15 years ago, I met her through my husband, they were both lawyers at the time,” the woman said. “We went and stayed at her house.”
When asked about the book review, she admitted, "He must have said something."
Trump's attorneys challenge for cause was denied by judge, but then they used one of their four remaining no questions asked challenges to dismiss her.
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an hour ago Brooklyn lifer with 'opinions' says she once saw Trump shopping for 'baby stuff' with ex-wife Maria Maples at iconic NYC home goods store By Ben Kochman
Only in New York.
Juror 680 sighed loudly this afternoon when Trump lawyer Susan Necheles asked her if she has strong opinions about the ex-president.
"I have got opinions," she said. "I'm born and raised in Brooklyn and New York and I've kind of spent my whole life knowing about Donald Trump."
She added that she once saw Trump and his ex-wife Marla Maples shopping at "ABC Homes" -- likely a reference to ABC Carpet and Home near Union Square -- "shopping for baby stuff."
The woman also said she had cousin who lived in Trump Tower" and heard positive things about him then.
But “how I feel about him as a president is different,” she added.
"He just seems very selfish and self-serving," she added. "I don't really appreciate that in any public servant."
The way Trump presents himself in public is "not my cup of tea," she added.
She promised she could set those opinions aside and decide the case based on facts.
A few minutes later, another prospective juror said she was not impressed by how Trump "carries himself."
“I think the way he may carry himself in public leaves something to be desired,” she said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 18, 2024, 08:59:36 pm
One of two jurors who have been dismissed from former President Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York said the former president looked “bored” and “less orange.”
3 minutes ago Half of new 96 jurors excused after saying they can't be fair and impartial By Kyle Schnitzer
Half of the 96 prospective jurors who were introduced Wednesday were excused from serving in the Trump hush money trial after saying they couldn't be fair and impartial.
Justice Merchan welcomed a fresh batch of 96 jurors inside the Manhattan courtroom Wednesday morning, but 48 jurors were excused.
At least they openly admit this
Wasn't there a juror in the Chauvin trial who claimed he didn't pay that much attention to the Floyd/Chauvin case and got on the jury only to find later a photograph of him attending a BLM rally??
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 01:14:27 pm
DAY 4
Jury selection could conclude on day 4 of Trump’s hush money trial: Live updates
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 01:23:10 pm
Trump demands judge remove gag order before walking into court
Former President Trump on Friday demanded that the judge in his hush money payments case remove a gag order that prevents him from speaking publicly about witnesses in the trial.
"I am not allowed to speak," Trump said in brief remarks before he entered the Manhattan courthouse. He asserted his constitutional rights were stripped away by the judge and that he cannot respond to "lies" told about him in the press during his trial.
"The gag order has to come off. People are allowed to speak about me, and I have a gag order just to show you how much more unfair it is. And the conflict has to end with the judge. The judge has a conflict. The worst I've ever seen," Trump said.
Judge Juan Merchan last month imposed a gag order on Trump, due to his "prior extrajudicial statements." Merchan said they established "a sufficient risk to the administration of justice."
Merchan ordered that Trump cannot make or direct others to make public statements about witnesses concerning their potential participation or about counsel in the case — other than Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg — or about court staff, DA staff or family members of staff.
Merchan also ordered that Trump cannot make or direct others to make public statements about any prospective juror or chosen juror.
Bragg filed a motion Tuesday to hold Trump in contempt of court for allegedly violating the gag order with a series of social media posts relating to two known witnesses in his criminal trial — Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels.
Bragg is urging Manhattan Judge Juan Merchan to also warn Trump that "future violations" of the gag order can be punished "not only with additional fines, but also with a term of incarceration of up to thirty days."
Bragg is urging Judge Merchan to also warn Trump that "future violations" of the gag order can be punished "not only with additional fines, but also with a term of incarceration of up to thirty days."
Fox News Digital's Brooke Singman contributed to this update. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 01:53:05 pm
We're on to Day 4 of the Manhattan criminal trial of former President Donald Trump and appear to be in the home stretch of the jury selection process. By the end of Thursday, 12 jurors and one alternate had been seated.
Judge Juan Merchan has indicated the plan is to seat six alternates total, meaning five more will need to be selected on Friday. The next panel of 96 prospective jurors has already been sworn, so once things get underway Friday morning, they may proceed fairly quickly. That is unless we see a repeat of Thursday morning (in which two of the already-seated jurors wound up being excused — one after confessing she did not feel she could be fair and impartial and the other after it turned out there were discrepancies between his responses and background information the prosecution discovered regarding him). https://redstate.com/smoosieq/2024/04/19/live-updates-trump-manhattan-trial-day-4-n2173009
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 02:44:26 pm
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Upper Manhattan data analyst who's on board of a synagogue makes it through By Ben Kochman
Prospective juror B483 is a data analyst who likes to cook, bake, watch hockey and go to the theater.
She's on the board of a synagogue and is okay with ending court on Monday and Tuesday in time to make it to a Passover Seder.
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7 minutes ago Retired NYC teacher likes the arts, has friends in local politics By Kyle Schnitzer
A retired New York City high school teacher has a penchant for the arts — and even has some friends in politics.
Juror No. 647 said he likes to go to the New York Philharmonic, the New York Historical Society and a “variety of other institutions.”
The life-long New Yorker said he had a close friend who was a city council member, and currently has a friend in the state’s assembly.
As for whether he’s read any of Donald Trump’s’ books, “I never read any of the books.”
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16 minutes ago Tech wiz likes to clean his local dog parks daily By Kyle Schnitzer
This tech wiz founded a boutique firm that creates startups and likes to clean up his local dog parks daily.
“Every day I clean my local dog parks,” Juror No. B445 said.
The prospective juror lives in the Financial District and used to work in finance. He's married and has children.
He also said he didn't know who Mark Pomerantz, the author of "People vs. Donald Trump," is.
Quote
18 minutes ago Fintech worker who takes her boys to Knicks games passes screening By Ben Kochman
Juror 624, who made it through, works for a fintech company with 12,000 employees that is publicly traded. She has a bachelor’s degree. She likes to see live music, take her boys to Knicks games and attend Rubik's Cube speed-solving competitions. She is the president of the parents association at her kids' school.
Quote
27 minutes ago This potential panelist runs a fashion and style Instagram account By Kyle Schnitzer
She runs an Instagram account where she shows off fashion and style.
“Nothing political, just a lot of pictures,” the Gramercy woman said, referring to her Instagram hobby.
The wannabe influencer is an accountant by trade and said she enjoys traveling, shopping and visiting cultural institutions.
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28 minutes ago Executive chef who watches YouTube for news makes it through By Ben Kochman
The juror in seat 6 B447 is an executive chef for a large hospitality group. He attended some college and has a culinary degree.
He lives with his wife and has no kids. He doesn’t follow any news organizations but watches YouTube.
He said he believes Donald Trump is being treated fairly in this case. He also said he can be a fair and impartial juror.
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38 minutes ago If court microphone breaks, I can fix it: potential juror, a 'big martial artist' IT guy By Kyle Schnitzer
One potential juror told the judge that if the court’s microphone stops working, he can fix it for him.
“If we have a problem with the microphone, I can give you a little tips to fix it,” IT specialist Juror No. 616 said.
Justice Juan Merchan said he’ll take him up on it if the problem happens.
The microphone used to screen prospective jurors has often gone in and out throughout the Donald Trump hush money trial.
The potential juror, a married father of one, recently moved to Inwood and considers himself a “big martial artist.”
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an hour ago Female prospective panelist used to be an amateur boxer By Kyle Schnitzer
A Hell's Kitchen woman said she used to be an amateur boxer but gave up the sports due to getting "black eyes."
“I don’t do that anymore because black eyes are frowned upon in the conference room," she joked, referring to her boxing career.
The Bronx-born water department employee said she loves the Yankees, lives alone at home, and was once arrested.
She also said she likely read Donald Trump's book "The Art of the Deal."
"I may have read 'The Art of the Deal' when I was younger but I’m not entirely sure," she said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 02:45:55 pm
an hour ago Trump again calls trial 'rigged,' claims DA Bragg should break protocol and try case himself By Ben Kochman
Donald Trump refused to answer shouted questions from reporters in the courthouse hallway.
But he again called the trial "rigged," before claiming that Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg — who attended Harvard University for undergrad and law school — is "not smart enough" to "represent himself" in court.
Bragg represents the people of New York, not himself. He made the call to pursue the hush money case against Trump — instead of other options like a business fraud case — a few months after taking office in 2022.
The heads of local district attorneys' offices almost never try cases themselves, typically passing on those duties to line prosecutors.
Bragg has assigned a team of five veteran lawyers at the DA's Office to work the case.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 03:00:51 pm
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6 minutes ago Potential panelist: 'I have several close friends who are felons'
A program manager who lives uptown said she has "several close friends who are felons." Her father was also a plumbing inspector for the local government.
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11 minutes ago Prospective juror worked on Hillary Clinton's 'Get Out and Vote' campaign By Kyle Schnitzer
A prospective juror told the court that he works for a music and entertainment company that works with the podcast company that produces Michael Cohen's podcast — and worked on Hillary Clinton's "Get Out and Vote" campaign.
He told Justice Juan Merchan about the connection to Cohen's podcast, "Mea Culpa," which is listed as one of the questions on the juror questionnaire.
“I am sort of connected to it without having any insider decision-making," said the Noho resident, identified as Juror No. B561, before revealing he also attended the Women's March.
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19 minutes ago Juror dismissed before reading any answers to questionnaire
The female juror in seat 12 B800 was dismissed before reading any answers to the questionnaire.
"I don’t think I can be impartial after thinking about this yesterday when I heard the questions. I don’t think I can be impartial."
Merchan dismissed her with the attorneys' consent.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 03:38:15 pm
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11 minutes ago Convicted felon cries before answering juror questionnaire: 'I shouldn't be here' By Kyle Schnitzer
A convicted felon who did hard time for a drug bust cried before answering the juror questionnaire as she tried getting out of jury duty.
“It was over 10 years ago and you guys keep calling me back for jury and I’m pretty sure I shouldn’t be here,” the prospective panelist, who lives on the Upper East Side, said.
Justice Merchan had a brief conference with the juror before she then read thorough her responses.
When asked what she does for work, she said she works at a general manager at a famous gym.
“I used to be a dental hygienist but I can’t do that legally anymore," she deadpanned.
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27 minutes ago Trump chuckles when prospective jurors says he's 'trying to find a wife' in his spare time By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump laughed when one perspective juror told the court that he's trying to find a wife in his spare time.
“I’ve been trying to find a wife in my spare time - it’s not working," Juror No. B651 said.
The response got a rare chuckle by the former president.
The insurance broker also said he has a relative who's a court officer inside Justice Merchan's courtroom today, but said it wouldn't affect his ability to serve on the jury.
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34 minutes ago Prospective juror works with Michael Cohen's son, dad is buds with Chris Christie By Kyle Schnitzer
Juror No. B588 said Michael Cohen's son works at her company — and her father is lifelong friends with former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.
"Michael Cohen's son works at my company," she said, but added that she's never worked with him.
She said knowing that her father is close buds with Christie wouldn't impact her ability to be fair on the panel.
She also stopped listening to the New York Times' podcast "The Daily" because it became too depressing.
“I used to listen to 'The Daily' but it’s too depressing so I stopped,” she said, drawing laughs from inside the overflow room.
Quote
43 minutes ago Potential panelist: 'I have several close friends who are felons' By Kyle Schnitzer
A program manager who lives uptown said she has "several close friends who are felons." Her father was also a plumbing inspector for the local government.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 03:40:56 pm
Trojan horse jurors' are biggest concern in Trump trial: Jonathan Turley
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 19, 2024, 03:49:45 pm
The jury selection is a joke and this persecution of an ex-president is disgusting. It's frightening actually.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 04:12:01 pm
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8 minutes ago Prospective juror bursts into tears during voir dire: 'This is so much more stressful than I thought it was going to be' By Ben Kochman
One female juror was just dismissed after bursting into tears shortly after Executive Assistant District Attorney Susan Hoffinger began addressing a pool of 18 possible jurors during voir dire.
"I thought I could do this, but I don't know," she said. "This is much more stressful than I thought it was going to be."
Justice Juan Merchan excused her after a brief conference at the bench.
Quote
12 minutes ago Woman who did jail time tells court 'Good luck' after being excused from jury duty By Kyle Schnitzer
The convicted felon prospective juror told the court "good luck" after she was excused from serving by the judge.
Justice Juan Merchan brought the woman back into the courtroom after a short break and thanked her for her bravery before dismissing her.
“I want to thank you again. What you just did is something most people in this courtroom would not do, so thank you," the judge said.
He explained that committing a felony won't bar her from serving on a jury, but she didn't have the right paperwork in order to serve. If she wants to serve in the future, she will need to bring the papers, the judge said.
As the woman was thanked for her time, she let out a loud "Good luck" in the open court.
The judge ordered that her reasons be sealed from the record.
Earlier, the woman, who said she served two years for a drug arrest, apologized for crying as she approached the well.
"Sorry for crying," said the woman, who later added that she served two years in prison.
“It was over 10 years ago and you guys keep calling me back for jury and I’m pretty sure I shouldn’t be here,” said the prospective panelist, who lives on the Upper East Side.
Her answers were perhaps the most heartfelt of all responses so far, and Donald Trump himself kept a close eye on her when she was speaking.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 05:12:52 pm
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3 minutes ago Another prospective juror, who once dreamed of living in Trump Tower, rips ex-prez's 'divisive' rhetoric By Ben Kochman
Juror 561 told the court that he feels Trump has "negative rhetoric and bias" that divide the country -- despite once dreaming about living in Trump Tower.
He didn't describe exactly what type of rhetoric he was speaking of -- but added that he wasn't sure Trump even believed some of the things he says.
“I think he just pushes those to stay in power. It’s more of the negative rhetoric bias that he speaks against people that is more powerful," the man said.
He said he holds these views despite once dreaming about living in Trump's Midtown's building when he was a kid in New Jersey.
"I probably said, 'Oh I’m going to live in Trump Tower,'" he said.
He added that using negative rhetoric is one thing when up for election, versus "governing the country and continuing to make it divisive."
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31 minutes ago Female juror tells Trump she's 'not even sure' what his policies are, says his base is 'enabled by his rhetoric' By Ben Kochman
A female juror just said she's "not even sure" what Trump's policies are -- while Trump sat feet away silently.
“To be honest, this is a little embarrassing," the juror said. "I’m not even sure what Trump’s policies are."
Trump's base "can feel enabled by his rhetoric," she added, citing homophobic comments and "different race comments that they would kind of cite to President Trump.”
"I think his rhetoric at times enables people to feel as if they have permission to discriminate or act on their negative impulses," she said.
She said she could still decide the case fairly.
“No, I think that’s an issue for me to deal with in the ballot box,” she said.
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a minute ago Judge excuses woman who dinged Trump's 'discriminatory' rhetoric By Ben Kochman
The judge has excused the female juror who said Trump’s base “can feel enabled by his rhetoric" and admitted that she doesn't even know what his policies are.
He granted Trump's lawyers' request to remove the prospective juror "for cause."
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2 minutes ago 2 more alternate jurors selected for Trump's hush money trial
Jury selection has become rapid fire in Donald Trump's hush money trial.
An additional two alternate jurors have been selected, making today's tally now three alternates.
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10 minutes ago Second alternate juror — who doesn't 'believe in watching news' — selected for Trump's hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
The first juror of Friday's batch of prospective jurors has been selected for Donald Trump's hush money trial.
She's originally from Spain and works in the adversity industry. She said she doesn't "believe in watching news" and said she didn't hold strong opinions of Trump.
The juror will become the second alternate, making the official tally 14: 12 jurors and two alternates.
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13 minutes ago Scandinavian prospective juror says Trump's a 'family man' — but it gets 'tricky' when it comes to his politics By Kyle Schnitzer
A prospective juror said that Donald Trump brings a lot of value to the economy — but he's more complicated that that.
"He’s a person, a politician, a businessman. I think that’s why people are kind of struggling with this question," Juror No. 445 said, responding to a question from Trump attorney Susan Necheles.
The Scandinavian who works with start-ups said he thought of Trump as a "family man" who is "successful" — but things can get "tricky" when you talk about him as a politician.
"The lower taxes and all that — I subscribe to," he said, but said he found the Republican party's stance on applying religion to women's rights was problematic.
He then finished by saying his view of Trump is "neutral, leaning positive."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 19, 2024, 05:35:51 pm
3 minutes ago Full panel of jurors selected for Trump trial By Kyle Schnitzer
Two more juror has been added to the panel, making it six alternate jurors selected.
A total of 18 jurors have been selected.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 19, 2024, 05:46:35 pm
Is being a crackpot a requirement for living in NYC?
Apparently. BREAKING: A man just set himself on fire outside the Trump trial in New York City. https://twitter.com/libsoftiktok/status/1781379851967951170
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Wingnut on April 19, 2024, 06:45:44 pm
BREAKING: A man just set himself on fire outside the Trump trial in New York City.
Aaron Sibarium @aaronsibarium Earlier this month, UCLA med school hosted a talk glorifying self-immolation. Psychiatrists warned that valorizing such behavior would encourage more of it. Today, a man set himself on fire outside of the courthouse where Trump’s trial is taking place. 2:35 PM · Apr 19, 2024
Aaron Sibarium @aaronsibarium NEW: UCLA medical school’s psychiatry department hosted a talk this month that glorified self-immolation as a form of "revolutionary suicide." We have obtained audio of the talk, which argued taboos on self-immolation serve "the interests of power." https://t.co/95SxWsnl7z 11:19 AM · Apr 12, 2024
Aaron Sibarium @aaronsibarium The talk, "Depathologizing Resistance," was delivered on April 2 by two psychiatry residents at UCLA, Drs. Ragda Izar and Afaf Moustafa, under the auspices of the department’s diversity office and UCLA’s Health Ethics Center. 11:19 AM · Apr 12, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on April 19, 2024, 06:49:21 pm
I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 @ImMeme0 Sign belonging to the man who set himself on fire reads: “TRUMP IS WITH BIDEN AND THEY’RE ABOUT TO FASCIST COUP US” (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GLjHkY7XIAA2vkS?format=jpg&name=small) 2:44 PM · Apr 19, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Wingnut on April 19, 2024, 06:51:15 pm
Drs. Ragda Izar and Afaf Moustafa Of the storied Amish clan in Pennsylvania near where Joe grew up no doubt.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Wingnut on April 19, 2024, 06:55:23 pm
NYC. The greatest show on earth.
Step right up and see the show. For one thin dime, a tenth of a dollar you can witness the 9th wonder of the world. A third world shithole in the making on American soil!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 20, 2024, 12:46:57 am
Trump trial: Prosecutors withhold witness lineup from former president’s team By Ashley Oliver April 19, 2024 7:31 pm .
Prosecutors made the unusual decision this week to remain almost entirely mum about the order in which they planned to call their first witnesses in former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial in New York.
Joshua Steinglass, a prosecutor working on behalf of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, said Friday evening he would let Trump’s attorneys know the name of their first witness on Sunday night, the day before opening arguments in the case are set to begin, according to a report from the courtroom. Trump’s defense team had asked for the names of the first three witnesses that prosecutors would call.
However, Steinglass warned that if Trump posted about the first witness on social media, he would cease extending defense attorneys the courtesy of a heads-up.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys receive lists of witnesses before the trial, but they do not know the order in which the opposing parties will call their witnesses. It is common practice for parties to give advanced notice to each other of the general order in which the witnesses will appear.
Steinglass’s remarks about waiting until Sunday to provide the name of the first witness came after prosecutors initially declined altogether to offer any information about the first witnesses they planned to question. Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche had asked on Thursday if Steinglass could tell him who the first three would be.
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2972781/trump-trial-prosecutors-withhold-witness-lineup-trump-team/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 20, 2024, 01:35:42 pm
Trump trial: Prosecutors withhold witness lineup from former president’s team By Ashley Oliver April 19, 2024 7:31 pm .
Prosecutors made the unusual decision this week to remain almost entirely mum about the order in which they planned to call their first witnesses in former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial in New York.
Joshua Steinglass, a prosecutor working on behalf of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, said Friday evening he would let Trump’s attorneys know the name of their first witness on Sunday night, the day before opening arguments in the case are set to begin, according to a report from the courtroom. Trump’s defense team had asked for the names of the first three witnesses that prosecutors would call.
However, Steinglass warned that if Trump posted about the first witness on social media, he would cease extending defense attorneys the courtesy of a heads-up.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys receive lists of witnesses before the trial, but they do not know the order in which the opposing parties will call their witnesses. It is common practice for parties to give advanced notice to each other of the general order in which the witnesses will appear.
Steinglass’s remarks about waiting until Sunday to provide the name of the first witness came after prosecutors initially declined altogether to offer any information about the first witnesses they planned to question. Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche had asked on Thursday if Steinglass could tell him who the first three would be.
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2972781/trump-trial-prosecutors-withhold-witness-lineup-trump-team/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 20, 2024, 01:58:59 pm
Michael Avenatti says he’s talking to Trump’s legal team — and would testify for the ex-prez By Social Links for Jon Levine Published April 20, 2024, 8:21 a.m. ET
Disgraced Stormy Daniels’ attorney Michael Avenatti has been in contact with former President Trump’s legal defense team and is ready and willing to testify against his former client, he told The Post in an interview from jail.
“The defense has contacted me,” Avenatti told The Post in a phone call from Terminal Island, a minimum-security federal prison in Los Angeles where he is currently serving a 19-year sentence for extortion, tax evasion, fraud, embezzlement and other federal crimes.
“I’d be more than happy to testify, I don’t know that I will be called to testify, but I have been in touch with Trump’s defense for the better part of year,” Avenatti said.
more https://nypost.com/2024/04/20/us-news/michael-avenatti-says-hes-in-conversations-with-trump-legal-team/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 01:02:42 pm
Day 5
And so it begins
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 01:05:02 pm
Truth Details
Donald J. Trump
@realDonaldTrump
Four years ago I was a very successful and popular President of the United States and, in November, went into an Election where I received more votes, by far, than any sitting President in the history of our Country. Unfortunately, the Election was Rigged and Stolen, and our once great Country has quickly become a Nation In Serious Decline. Tomorrow morning I report to a New York Criminal Court for a Trial on, somewhat ironically, ELECTION INTERFERENCE, ruled over by Crooked Joe Biden’s DOJ, before a Corrupt and Highly Conflicted Judge, a failed Soros funded District Attorney who didn’t want to bring this case, which could have been brought eight years ago, but wasn’t, in an almost completely Democrat District. Virtually every Legal Scholar and Expert says that there is NO CASE, NO CRIME, NO NOTHING! IT IS A SHAM THAT SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN BROUGHT, EXCEPT TO TRY AND DAMAGE BIDEN’S POLITICAL OPPONENT, ME. SEE YOU TOMORROW MORNING!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 01:06:31 pm
Former National Enquirer Publisher David Pecker Reportedly First to Testify in Trump Trial
Elizabeth Weibel 21 Apr 2024
David Pecker, former publisher of the National Enquirer, is reportedly set to be the first to testify in former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial.
Pecker, whose tabloid reportedly engaged in “catch and kill” practices to bury damaging stories about Trump, will be the first to take the stand after opening arguments in the trial on Monday, a source close to the matter told the New York Times.
Trump is facing 34 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree in relation to hush money payments made to adult entertainment star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential election.
The hush money trial will center around allegations that Trump falsified his business records to hide reimbursement payments made to Michael Cohen, his former attorney.
Cohen was provided with reimbursement payments after he had arranged hush money payments to people such as Daniels to bury negative stories about Trump.
more https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2024/04/21/former-national-enquirer-publisher-david-pecker-reportedly-first-testify-trump-trial/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 22, 2024, 02:40:28 pm
Wonder if pecker will be asked about the Cruz hit stories that he printed at the behest of the defendant.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 02:47:03 pm
14 minutes ago Prosecutors: Trump orchestrated 'criminal scheme to corrupt' 2016 presidential election By Kyle Schnitzer
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo said at the beginning of his opening arguments that Donald Trump orchestrated a "criminal scheme to corrupt the 2016 president election."
He added: "He then covered up that conspiracy by lying in his New York business records, by lying over and over again.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 22, 2024, 02:47:54 pm
14 minutes ago Prosecutors: Trump orchestrated 'criminal scheme to corrupt' 2016 presidential election By Kyle Schnitzer
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo said at the beginning of his opening arguments that Donald Trump orchestrated a "criminal scheme to corrupt the 2016 president election."
He added: "He then covered up that conspiracy by lying in his New York business records, by lying over and over again.”
Wow, that's quite an opening statement of lies right off the bat.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 02:48:59 pm
32 minutes ago ‘Hush money’ is not a crime, and Bragg has no case against Trump: Andrew C. McCarthy By Andrew C. McCarthy
Opening statements get under way in Manhattan this morning in Donald Trump’s “hush money” trial – the first-ever criminal trial against a former American president and, indeed, against a de facto major-party presidential nominee.
It got me to thinking: Why do we call it the “hush money” trial?
Well, sure, the media-Democrat complex loves the salacious overtones of that spin. But that’s not the real reason. If Trump had robbed a bank or, as he once famously put it, shot someone on Fifth Avenue in broad daylight, we’d be talking about Trump’s bank robbery trial or his murder trial. That is, we’d be talking about the crime.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 02:49:25 pm
44 minutes ago Judge allows prosecutors to introduce 'Access Hollywood' tape at trial By Kyle Schnitzer
Justrice Juan Merchan said he will allow prosecutors to introduce Donald Trump's infamous "Access Hollywood" tape into evidence — but only the transcript.
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass said last week he wanted to bring the transcript — but not play the video for the jurors. The judge had said he felt the video itself — in which Trump boasts about grabbing women "by the p---y" — was too prejudicial.
“I don’t see any reason why a transcript which accurately summarizes what was said on the tape should not be submitted into evidence," the judge ruled.
Trump's attorney Todd Blanche objected to use of the transcript.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 02:50:40 pm
2 minutes ago Prosecutors: Trump, Pecker and Cohen carried out three different 'catch and kill deals to get him elected' By Kyle Schnitzer
Prosecutors told a jury that Donald Trump, ex-National Enquirer publisher David Pecker and Trump's "fixer" Michael Cohen "carried out three different catch and kill deals to get him elected," during opening statements.
18 minutes ago Prosecutors: Trump orchestrated 'criminal scheme to corrupt' 2016 presidential election By Kyle Schnitzer
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo said at the beginning of his opening arguments that Donald Trump orchestrated a "criminal scheme to corrupt the 2016 president election."
He added: "He then covered up that conspiracy by lying in his New York business records, by lying over and over again.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on April 22, 2024, 02:51:22 pm
Wow, that's quite an opening statement of lies right off the bat.
They're throwing all kinds of pasta against the wall, aren't they?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 02:53:37 pm
Quote
a minute ago One ‘catch and kill’ deal included ex-Trump Tower doorman who claimed Trump fathered a child By Kyle Schnitzer
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Mathew Colangelo said the first “catch and kill” deal that Trump contributed to was covering up allegations by a former Trump Tower doorman who claimed he father a child with a former housekeeper.
The doorman was paid of $30,000 by the National Enquirer, according to prosectors.
“It was the first time that David Pecker had ever paid anyone for information about Donald Trump,” prosecutors told the jury.
Quote
2 minutes ago Trump 'desperately' wanted to silence Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal: DA
Trump was "desperate" to silence the Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal from coming forward about an alleged affair she had with him while he was married, prosecutor Matthew Colangelo said.
"Mr Trump desperately did not want this information about Karen McDougal to become public because he was concerned about its impact on the election," the DA said.
Trump worked with Michael Cohen and David Pecker to pay McDougal $150,000 to keep quiet, the prosecutor added.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 22, 2024, 02:59:37 pm
They're throwing all kinds of pasta against the wall, aren't they?
And I'm sure, more to come....
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 03:05:34 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Trump shakes his head when prosecutors accuse him of election fraud
Donald Trump shook his head when prosecutors said that he committed election fraud during the 2016 presidential election.
"It was election fraud. Clear and simple. We’ll never know — and it doesn't matter — whether this conspiracy was the difference maker in a close election," Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo said.
Trump then shook his head twice as he looked down.
Quote
6 minutes ago Prosecutors: Access Hollywood tape 'depicts Donald Trump bragging about sexual assault' By Kyle Schnitzer
"The transcript depicts Donald Trump bragging about sexual assault," ADA Matthew Colangelo said about Trump's "Access Hollywood" tape.
Quote
8 minutes ago Jurors hear portion of Trump's 'Access Hollywood' transcript read by prosecutors By Kyle Schnitzer
Prosecutors just read to the jury a portion of the "Access Hollywood" tape where Donald Trump "bragged about sexual assault."
"I'm quoting the defendant's words," Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo said, before reading a portion of the "Access Hollywood" transcript.
"You can do anything — grab them by the p---y, you can do anything," he said, citing the quote to Trump.
Colangelo then added that those were "Donald Trump's words on video released" one month before the election, which he said had an "immediate and explosive" impact on Trump's election.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 22, 2024, 03:18:30 pm
Quote
Cruz Blames Nat’l Enquirer Story on ‘Trump and His Henchmen’: ‘Trump May Be a Rat But I Have No Desire to Copulate with Him’
BREITBART TV25 Mar 2016
During a news conference in Oshkosh, WI on Friday, Republican presidential hopeful Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) ripped “Donald Trump and his henchmen,” including Roger Stone, a former Trump adviser, and blamed them for a report in this week’s issue of National Enquirer alleging Cruz had extramarital affairs with five different women.
“It’s not surprising that Donald Trump’s tweet occurs the day before the attack comes out,” Cruz said. “And I would note, that Mr. Stone is a man who has 50 years of dirty tricks behind him. He’s a man for whom a term was coined for copulating with a rodent. Well, let me be clear. Donald Trump may be a rat but I have no desire to copulate with him.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 03:20:52 pm
Quote
3 minutes ago Trump's attorney: Donald Trump is 'innocent'
Trump's attorney Todd Blanche has started his opening statements, saying that Trump is "innocent" and didn't "commit any crimes."
"President Trump is innocent. President Trump did not commit any crimes. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office should never have brought this case," Blanche said.
Quote
6 minutes ago Prosecutors: Michael Cohen has 'made mistakes,' lied to 'protect his boss'
Prosecutors said that the jury will hear a lot about Michael Cohen at Trump’s hush money trial and that he “made mistakes in the past.”
“Michael Cohen has made mistakes in the past,” Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo said, before listing Cohen’s criminal record.
Colangelo said Cohen lied to “protect his boss.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 03:22:15 pm
Fox
Judge Juan Merchan instructed jurors on how to handle the case as proceedings got underway in former President Trump's NY criminal case on Monday.
Merchan spoke with the jurors just before prosecutors made their opening statement. He explained the nature of evidence and how it will be presented to the court, and he emphasized that the indictment against Trump is not evidence of guilt.
He told jurors they are not allowed to ask questions, but they are allowed to take notes throughout the trial.
He also went on to instruct the jurors not to discuss the case with anyone, visit any places where the crime was alleged to have been committed, or read about and research the case outside of the courtroom.
Prosecutors are seeking to establish that Trump's hush money payment to pornography actress Stormy Daniels was in fact a campaign contribution that went unreported. Trump argues the payment was not directly related to his 2016 campaign. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 22, 2024, 03:25:48 pm
Anyone get the feeling that a 'guilty' verdict is already likely?
Also, I think it could be probable that all what is happening surrounding Trump and his legal woes maybe also be a diversion to what else is happening to our country. People are very focused on this. Border? Economy? Mob rule? Should be more of a focus. Just a thought here.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 03:38:45 pm
Quote
4 minutes ago Defense says there's 'nothing wrong' with trying to influence an election By Kyle Schnitzer
After prosecutors said that Donald Trump orchestrated a "criminal scheme" to corrupt the 2016 presidential election, Todd Blanche, Trump's attorney, claimed that there's "nothing wrong" with trying to "influence an election."
“There’s nothing wrong with trying to influence an election," Blanche said. "It’s called democracy. They put something sinister as if it was a crime.”
Quote
9 minutes ago Trump is a family man despite family not in court: attorney By Kyle Schnitzer
Trump's attorney Todd Blanche tried humanizing the former president by calling him a "husband" and a "father" — but none of Trump's family is present in the courtroom for opening statements in the hush money trial.
"He’s a man. He’s a husband, he’s a father, and he’s a person, just like you and just like me," Blanche said.
Quote
17 minutes ago Todd Blanche explains why he still calls Trump the 'president'
Donald Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche said that the defense will refer to Trump as “President Trump” out of “respect” for his service to the country.
"We will call him President Trump out of respect," Blanche said.
Trump is referred to as president by his attorneys throughout the hush money trial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 03:40:30 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago Trump's attorney tries to insinuate that Stormy Daniels was trying to 'extort' Trump before being shot down by judge By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump's attorney tried to insinuate that Stormy Daniels was trying to extort the former president before an objection was raised.
"It was almost an effort to extort President Trump," Blanche said.
The people objected, and Justice Juan Merchan sustained the objection.
He went on to say, "It was sinister, and it was an attempt to try to embarrass President Trump."
Quote
a few seconds ago Cohen has an 'obsession with getting Trump': Todd Blanche
Todd Blanche, Donald Trump's attorney, said that Michael Cohen is obsessed with "getting Trump" and he "cannot be trusted."
"He has an obsession with getting Trump, and you are going to hear that. I submit to you that he cannot be trusted."
His remarks come after prosecutors told the jury to give Cohen a chance despite his past mistakes.
Quote
4 minutes ago Trump is 'cloaked in innocence': attorney By Kyle Schnitzer
Trump's attorney Todd Blanche said that the former president is "cloaked in innocence" and that the jury will find plenty of holes in the prosecution's hush money case.
"It is not simple, as the people just described," Blanche said, adding that what prosecutors told the jury is not true, and it will case "plenty of reasonable doubt."
He also added that Trump is "cloaked in innocence."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: The_Reader_David on April 22, 2024, 03:46:02 pm
An observation about the prosecution's approach: they are claiming that paying someone to suppress information about something not related to the conduct of government during the run-up to an election is "election fraud". What then is pressuring tech companies with threats of onerous regulations, trotting out ex-intelligence-service-officials to lie and say that real evidence of at least potential corruption in the conduct of official duties is not real, but "Russian disinformation"? Surely it, too would be election fraud under the prosecution's construction of the notion.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 03:48:41 pm
Quote
8 minutes ago Cohen has an 'obsession with getting Trump': Todd Blanche
Todd Blanche, Donald Trump's attorney, said that Michael Cohen is obsessed with "getting Trump" and he "cannot be trusted."
"He has an obsession with getting Trump, and you are going to hear that. I submit to you that he cannot be trusted."
His remarks come after prosecutors told the jury to give Cohen a chance despite his past mistakes.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 03:51:56 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 04:06:53 pm
Quote
13 minutes ago Trump's attorney finishes opening statements: 'Use your common sense' By Kyle Schnitzer
Todd Blanche just wrapped up his opening statements in Donald Trump's hush money case, telling the jury to "use your common sense" when rendering a verdict.
"Use your common sense, you’re New Yorkers, that’s why we are here," he said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 22, 2024, 04:08:36 pm
...hmmm he just lost the case; accusing NY'ers of having common sense. *****rollingeyes*****
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 04:18:02 pm
Quote
8 minutes ago Former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker takes the stand By Ben Kochman
After a brief break, prosecutors have called their first witness to the stand: David Pecker, the ex-publisher of the National Enquirer tabloid magazine.
Pecker, Donald Trump and Michael Cohen huddled at Trump Tower in 2015, when they came up with the alleged scheme to "catch and kill" damaging stories about Trump, prosecutors say.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 04:43:56 pm
Quote
7 minutes ago Pecker: National Enquirer cover was the 'only thing' that mattered By Kyle Schnitzer
Former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker said the cover of the magazine was the "only thing" important in publishing.
“Being in the publishing industry for 40 years, I realized early in my career that the only thing that was important was the cover of the magazine," Pecker said on the witness stand.
Pecker said a reporter could not spend more than $10,000 to publish or produce a story for the National Enquirer without his approval.
Anything more than $10,000 would need to be vetted for approval, he testified.
"I had the final say on the celebrity side on the magazine," Pecker said.
He's currently under direct examination by Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 04:45:26 pm
Court is over for today..a juror has a toothache and needs to go to a dentist... :shrug:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 04:52:56 pm
Judge says Manhattan DA can cross-examine Trump about Carroll, fraud decisions by Ella Lee and Zach Schonfeld - 04/22/24 10:28 AM ET
NEW YORK — A New York judge said Monday that Manhattan prosecutors can bring up several civil lawsuits involving former President Trump if he chooses to testify in his ongoing criminal trial.
After hearing arguments Friday, Judge Juan Merchan ruled that prosecutors can cross-examine Trump about six of the 13 prior court determinations they requested to raise in their efforts to impugn the former president’s credibility in front of jurors.
Merchan ruled that prosecutors are permitted to question Trump about two rulings — one by a judge, the other by a jury — finding that Trump defamed advice columnist E. Jean Carroll by denying her claims of sexual assault.
The judge said prosecutors can also raise the decision in Trump’s civil fraud trial finding that he fraudulently manipulated property values as well as rulings finding that Trump violated the gag order in that case. Trump can also face questioning about a 2018 ruling in a lawsuit against his foundation.
But Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) cannot bring up sanctions imposed against Trump in a lawsuit he filed against Hillary Clinton in Florida, the judge ruled, as well as several other “bad acts” prosecutors desired to cross-examine Trump about.
Merchan’s ruling is designed to give Trump’s legal team an informed view as it mulls whether the former president should take the stand in his defense.
more https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4611176-judge-says-manhattan-da-can-cross-examine-trump-about-carroll-fraud-decisions/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 07:07:35 pm
Trump Trial Day 5: Matthew Colangelo, Ex-Biden Admin Official, Gives Prosecution’s Opening Statement
Matthew Colangelo, a former Biden DOJ official, delivered the prosecution’s opening statement on Monday in the Trump criminal trial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on April 22, 2024, 08:03:56 pm
Will Chamberlain @willchamberlain The former #3 official in the entire Biden DOJ left that job to fulfill his dream of being a line prosecutor in a local DA's office To get Trump But this is totally independent of the administration 11:22 AM · Apr 22, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 22, 2024, 08:10:02 pm
Colangelo’s history in the Democrat party runs deep. He worked in the Obama administration as a senior Labor Department official and found his way into Biden’s DOJ, appointed as acting associate attorney general when Biden took office. In that position, as the third highest-ranking official at the department, Colangelo oversaw the Civil, Civil Rights, Antitrust, and Tax divisions, among others.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on April 22, 2024, 08:12:40 pm
Judge says Manhattan DA can cross-examine Trump about Carroll, fraud decisions by Ella Lee and Zach Schonfeld - 04/22/24 10:28 AM ET
NEW YORK — A New York judge said Monday that Manhattan prosecutors can bring up several civil lawsuits involving former President Trump if he chooses to testify in his ongoing criminal trial.
After hearing arguments Friday, Judge Juan Merchan ruled that prosecutors can cross-examine Trump about six of the 13 prior court determinations they requested to raise in their efforts to impugn the former president’s credibility in front of jurors.
Merchan ruled that prosecutors are permitted to question Trump about two rulings — one by a judge, the other by a jury — finding that Trump defamed advice columnist E. Jean Carroll by denying her claims of sexual assault.
The judge said prosecutors can also raise the decision in Trump’s civil fraud trial finding that he fraudulently manipulated property values as well as rulings finding that Trump violated the gag order in that case. Trump can also face questioning about a 2018 ruling in a lawsuit against his foundation.
But Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) cannot bring up sanctions imposed against Trump in a lawsuit he filed against Hillary Clinton in Florida, the judge ruled, as well as several other “bad acts” prosecutors desired to cross-examine Trump about.
Merchan’s ruling is designed to give Trump’s legal team an informed view as it mulls whether the former president should take the stand in his defense.
more https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4611176-judge-says-manhattan-da-can-cross-examine-trump-about-carroll-fraud-decisions/
???Well, I am not so sure that Trump taking the stand in his own defense is wise -- perhaps it will in the long run be favorable, but he tends to insert his foot in his mouth.
Prayers up for DJT.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: roamer_1 on April 22, 2024, 08:21:30 pm
???Well, I am not so sure that Trump taking the stand in his own defense is wise -- perhaps it will in the long run be favorable, but he tends to insert his foot in his mouth.
Prayers up for DJT.
Both feet. At the same time... :whistle:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 22, 2024, 09:35:10 pm
Jonathan Turley left in ‘utter disbelief’ over DA’s case against Trump
Fox News contributor and legal expert Jonathan Turley said former President Donald Trump’s trial in Manhattan over allegedly falsifying business records has left him “in utter disbelief.”
“What is clear, is in this case, Trump is right. I mean, this is an embarrassment. I mean, the fact that we are actually talking about this case being presented in a New York courtroom, leaves me in utter disbelief. I mean, the the arguments today did in fact capture all the problems here,” Turley said Monday afternoon on Fox News.
"You had this misdemeanor under state law, that had run out, this is going back to relate it to the 2016 election. And they zapped it back into life by alleging that there was a campaign finance violation under the federal laws that doesn't exist," he said.
Turley was reacting to the trial Monday, which has officially kicked off in earnest after jury selection last week, as well as a recent poll finding 31% of Americans find Trump’s behavior at the crux of the case unethical, but not illegal. While an additional 14% said there was “nothing wrong” with Trump’s actions, and 35% who said his actions were “illegal.”
“This case should not have been brought , and if it were brought, there was no reason to have this right before the election in my view. But this is becoming the split screen election,” Turley said. “Earlier it was pretty damaging to see the split screen between Trump in different courtrooms. This is even more effective when the other side of the screen shows Biden campaigning in key states like Pennsylvania, while he's held in this courtroom."
“It really brings home something that bothers a lot of Americans, including people don't particularly like Trump, that this is the weaponization of the criminal legal system. It's something we should all be able to condemn."
Court wrapped up around 12:30 on Monday, earlier than initially anticipated, after a juror experiencing a toothache required a dental appointment. Posted by Emma Colton
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 22, 2024, 10:41:11 pm
???Well, I am not so sure that Trump taking the stand in his own defense is wise -- perhaps it will in the long run be favorable, but he tends to insert his foot in his mouth.
Prayers up for DJT.
I didn't think Trump could have limited the Cross-X anyway, and if I were he, I would not take the stand for Direct. It would have the added effect of shocking the heck out of everybody, to boot!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 22, 2024, 10:49:26 pm
NEW YORK — Attorneys for Donald Trump unveiled their defense strategy during opening arguments in his hush money case on Monday, largely choosing to dispute the laws under which prosecutors have charged Trump rather than the allegations themselves.
For the defense’s opening statement, Trump lawyer Todd Blanche told the jury that Trump was not involved in nor aware of the specifics of hush money payments because Trump left it up to his former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen to manage. Blanche said his client had “nothing to do with” creating 34 checks, the hush money along with other compensation to Cohen, or the allegedly falsified entries on the ledger.
But he said many elements of the indictment against Trump seek to criminalize actions that are not actually illegal.
“Entering into a nondisclosure agreement is perfectly legal; companies do that all the time,” Blanche said. “There’s nothing illegal about that.”
Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo objected after Blanche said that Stormy Daniels’s allegations that she and Trump had an affair were almost an “attempt to extort President Trump.” Justice Juan Merchan sustained the objection on Blanche’s comment, and the attorney continued.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 04:57:08 am
Ian Jaeger @IanJaeger29
BREAKING: Donald Trumps defense team said the following during their open statement.
Donald Trump’s defense team,
“We will call him “President” Trump for the remainder of the trial out of respect for his service to the country.”
“President Trump is innocent. President Trump did not commit any crimes. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office should never have brought this case.”
2:40 PM · Apr 22, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 05:02:00 am
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 05:07:11 am
Governor Doug Burgum: "He'd be out doing two rallies a day...when President Trump campaigns, he talks about inflation, he talks about the border...public safety...stopping the wars...it is absolutely election interference and it is so unfair to the public and to our country." (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 05:20:08 am
Jack Poso @JackPosobiec
BREAKING: Trump lawyers blast Stormy Daniels, say this was a scheme to extort a multi-billionaire who was running for President and that she blackmailed him into negotiating the settlement so she wouldn't spread false claims about him
11:52 AM · Apr 22, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 05:25:00 am
"Why would Trump prosecutor Matthew Colangelo leave the #3 spot in Biden’s DOJ for a lower-level job in DA Bragg’s office? This is a coordinated Biden Trial to take down his top political opponent." (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 01:14:56 pm
DAY 6
Trump trial: Judge to decide if former president violated gag order By Ashley Oliver April 23, 2024 7:00 am .
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg will urge a judge on Tuesday at a hearing to hold Donald Trump in criminal contempt for allegedly violating a gag order in the former president’s hush money case in New York.
Bragg has claimed Trump violated the order at least 10 times and has argued to Judge Juan Merchan that a contempt finding should be accompanied by sanctions of $1,000 per gag order violation and a warning that additional violations would result in a punishment of prison time.
Merchan appeared poised to consider holding Trump in contempt seriously after he scheduled the hearing on the matter and ordered Trump’s attorneys to respond in writing ahead of the hearing with reasons why the former president should not be penalized for his comments.
Merchan issued the gag order on April 1, effectively banning Trump from speaking about witnesses in the case, prosecutors and their families, and court staff and their families.
While Merchan acknowledged in the order that courts are “understandably concerned” about Trump’s right to free speech, the judge said Trump’s verbal attacks on those involved in his legal proceedings served to intimidate witnesses or officials and therefore interfered with the court process.
“The People provide a plethora of compelling arguments in support of their claim that Defendant’s conduct is deliberate and intended to intimidate this Court and impede the orderly administration of this trial,” Merchan wrote.
On April 15, prosecutors filed three examples of alleged gag order violations, which involved Trump making references to Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels, two known witnesses in the case who are both aggressively outspoken about Trump in their own rights.
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2974853/trump-trial-judge-decide-former-president-gag-order/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 01:38:45 pm
Donald Trump Gagged as Witness Michael Cohen Calls Him ‘Von ShitzInPantz’
Former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, a witness in the Donald Trump New York trial, has been attacking his former boss publicly, calling him “Von ShitzInPants” as recently as Monday as Trump faces a hearing on Tuesday on whether he has violated gag orders on attacking witnesses like Cohen.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 01:50:04 pm
Fast Facts:
Former President Trump returns to court Tuesday. The morning's proceedings will focus on accusations from prosecutors that Trump violated Judge Juan Merchan's gag order.
Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg claims Trump violated the gag order ten times. He wants Trump to pay a $1,000 fine for each alleged infraction.
Later Tuesday, the trial will resume in earnest with witness testimony from David Pecker, the former publisher for the National Enquirer.
Trump faces 34 counts of falsifying business records in relation to alleged hush money payments he made to pornography actress Stormy Daniels prior to the 2016 election.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 01:50:42 pm
Prosecutors allege Trump violated gag order 10 times
Fox News' Brooke Singman appeared on the channel to give an update on former President Trump's New York trial on Tuesday.
Prosecutors with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office argue Trump has violated a gag order imposed by Judge Juan Merchan. They say Trump has made 10 violations so far and they called on Merchan to impose a $1,000 fine for each alleged infraction.
Merchan has set aside Tuesday morning to discuss the alleged violations. Trump's defense team says none of the examples provided by prosecutors constitute a violation.
Gag order talk will end around 11 a.m., at which point former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker will return to the witness stand. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 02:36:17 pm
NYPost
5 minutes ago Judge loses patience with Trump's attorney: 'I'm asking the questions' By Kyle Schnitzer
Justice Juan Merchan seems to be losing his patience with defense attorney Todd Blanche who is trying to defend Trump's posts that allegedly violate a gag order.
"I'm asking the questions. I'm going to be the one who decides whether your client is in contempt," the judge said.
He then added, "I keep asking you over and over again for a specific answer, and I’m not getting an answer."
Blanche has been spending the morning defending Trump's comments, which he said were in defense of public criticism by Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen.
The attorney had spent several minutes speaking about Cohen's mention of a "pardon" and why Trump felt like he had to defend himself, which seemed to irk the judge.
“When your client violates a gag order, I expect more than one word," the judge seethed, referring to Blanche's close focus on the word "pardon."
Trump briefly spoke with defense attorney Emil Bove during Blanche's bout with the judge.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 02:39:20 pm
19 minutes ago DA wants judge to fine Trump $10,000 but not jail him — though he's 'angling for that' By Ben Kochman and Kyle Schnitzer
The Manhattan DA's Office is urging Justice Juan Merchan to fine Donald Trump $10,000 for the 10 alleged gag order breaches.
Prosecutor Chris Conroy argued that the court should also force Trump to remove eight posts from Truth Social and two from his campaign website that take aim at the jury and at expected trial witnesses Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels.
Courts can technically throw defendants in jail for up to 30 days for gag order breaches. Conroy is not asking to jail Trump, though "the defendant seems to be angling for that," he said.
That's a reference to a recent social media post in which Trump claims it would be his "honor" to go to Rikers Island for breaching the gag order.
Trump compared himself in the post to Nelson Mandela, the South African activist who was repeatedly jailed for protesting his government's apartheid regime.
Quote
31 minutes ago Trump's 'very troubling' post about jurors caused woman to bail: prosecutors By Kyle Schnitzer
Prosecutors blamed Donald Trump's alleged repeated gag order violations for a selected juror bailing on the trial after they said they had "concerns" about whether they could be impartial in the case.
Juror No. 2, a nurse, told the court Thursday that she "definitely has concerns now" just two days after being selected to the jury.
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Chris Conroy cited Trump's "very troubling post" on Truth Social about jurors, in which he quoted Fox News anchor Jesse Waters, who called them "undercover Liberal Activists lying to the Judge."
"I think the link to the jurors in this case in this proceedings is very clearly a violation of the order," Conroy said.
The juror told the court that she had close friends, family and colleagues reaching out to her about the case based on media reports.
Conroy added, "What happened here is precisely what this order was designed to prevent, and this defendant doesn’t care."
Quote
25 minutes ago Blanche: Trump didn't violate gag order By Kyle Schnitzer
“Just to set the record very straight and clear, President Trump does know what the gag order allows him and doesn’t allow him to do," attorney Todd Blanche just said.
Blanche said there wasn't any violation of the court-imposed gag order in the 10 posts that prosecutors just presented.
Donald Trump was the victim of a “barrage of political attacks from all sides, including the two witnesses described in the two posts," Blanche said, referring to Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen.
Quote
DA wants judge to fine Trump $10,000 but not jail him — though he's 'angling for that' By Ben Kochman and Kyle Schnitzer
The Manhattan DA's Office is urging Justice Juan Merchan to fine Donald Trump $10,000 for the 10 alleged gag order breaches.
Prosecutor Chris Conroy argued that the court should also force Trump to remove eight posts from Truth Social and two from his campaign website that take aim at the jury and at expected trial witnesses Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels.
Courts can technically throw defendants in jail for up to 30 days for gag order breaches. Conroy is not asking to jail Trump, though "the defendant seems to be angling for that," he said.
That's a reference to a recent social media post in which Trump claims it would be his "honor" to go to Rikers Island for breaching the gag order.
Trump compared himself in the post to Nelson Mandela, the South African activist who was repeatedly jailed for protesting his government's apartheid regime.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 02:44:44 pm
a minute ago Judge hammers Trump lawyer Todd Blanche for 'losing all credibility' with the court
The judge just blasted Trump lawyer Todd Blanche for insisting that Trump is "trying to comply" with the gag order.
"Mr. Blanche, you are losing all credibility with the court," Judge Merchan seethed.
Merchan also ripped Blanche for "not offering me anything to support your argument," and not citing a single prior court ruling, or "case law," to support his claims.
“I don’t have any case law to support that, but its common sense," Blanche said earlier in the hearing.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 02:51:44 pm
4 minutes ago Judge reserves decision on gag order issue for later, court breaks for 15 minutes
Judge Merchan did not issue an immediate ruling from the bench, saying he'll decide on the gag order issue later.
The court is now in a 15-minute break before David Pecker retakes the stand.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 03:07:01 pm
a minute ago Trump returns to courtroom
Donald Trump has returned to the courtroom while we await the jurors and judge to enter, and then ex National Enquirer publisher David Pecker to re-take the stand.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 03:08:12 pm
FOX
Former President Trump's legal team attempted to justify Trump's alleged gag order violations by arguing they only came in response to attacks by witnesses Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels on Tuesday.
When Judge Juan Merchan asked for specific examples of what attacks Trump was responding to, however, attorney Todd Blanche could not identify one. The latest exchange in the New York vs. Trump trial left Merchan visibly annoyed, warning Blanche that we was "losing all credibility with the court."
Blanche objected, saying the prosecution had taken as much time as they desired to discuss the gag order violations earlier that morning.
"They were answering my questions," Merchan responded.
"[The DA's office] has presented 10 exhibits and the defense has presented nothing," he continued. "I’ve asked you eight or nine times, ‘show me the exact post that he was responding to’ and you haven’t been able to do that once."
Blanche had attempted to justify some of Trump's other alleged gag order violations by arguing that they were political in nature and that he could not be expected to remain silent as a presidential candidate. He also said situations where Trump is merely reposting an article from a third party, such as a news outlet, cannot constitute a violation.
Merchan objected to that line of argument, however, asking how such an article would appear on Trump's account without Trump approving it.
“It’s your client’s position that when he was reposting these things, he was not violating the gag order?" Merchan asked. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 03:51:51 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago Trump instructed Pecker to filter any 'negative stories' through Micael Cohen: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
David Pecker is testifying about the first time Trump introduced Pecker to Michael Cohen in 2007.
Pecker said Trump told him that if any "negative stories comes out" that Pecker should consult with Cohen, then Trump's attorney.
Pecker also said Trump is "very cautious, very frugal" about his money.
Quote
5 minutes ago Trump a 'detail-oriented,' 'micro-manager' and 'frugal' businessman, Pecker says By Ben Kochman
Pecker was just asked how he'd describe Trump as a businessman.
"I would describe Mr. Trump is very knowledgeable, very detail-oriented," and "almost as a micro-manager," he testifies.
"His approach to money was that he was very cautious and very frugal," Pecker adds.
Quote
17 minutes ago Pecker showers Trump with praise, says mogul told him 'you bought a great magazine' in 1999 By Kyle Schnitzer
Former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker testified that Donald Trump helped introduce him to other high-profile executives — and that Trump was one of the first people to congratulate him on acquiring the tabloid in 1999.
“As a celebrity in his own right at that time, he was very helpful in introducing me to other executives in New York," Pecker said about Trump.
"He would always invite me to parties and events… when I bought the National Enquirer in 1999, one of the first calls I received was from Mr. Trump."
He said Trump called him, saying, "Congratulations, you bought a great magazine."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 03:56:05 pm
Any time the Stone-Pecker slime machine is put into the equation, can't be good news for DJT.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 03:57:19 pm
He said Trump called him, saying, "Congratulations, you bought a great magazine."
National Enquirer?
:silly:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 03:58:39 pm
Quote
a minute ago Trump vents on Truth Social: Judge 'has taken away my constitutional right to free speech'
Trump took to his Truth Social platform around 11 a.m. to vent after a hearing on the gag order imposed on the ex-president, saying Justice Juan Merchan "has taken away my constitutional right to free speech":
"HIGHLY CONFLICTED, TO PUT IT MILDLY, JUDGE JUAN MERCHAN, HAS TAKEN AWAY MY CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO FREE SPEECH," Trump wrote.
"EVERYBODY IS ALLOWED TO TALK AND LIE ABOUT ME, BUT I AM NOT ALLOWED TO DEFEND MYSELF. THIS IS A KANGAROO COURT, AND THE JUDGE SHOULD RECUSE HIMSELF!"
Merchan did not immediately rule whether Trump will be fined up to $10,000 for alleged violations of the gag order — which does not prohibit the ex-prez from slamming the judge.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 04:01:09 pm
Fox
Prominent anti-Trump legal pundits, analysts have a secret weekly Zoom: Report
A group of anti-Trump cable news legal commentators reportedly meet for a weekly Zoom call to discuss the latest on former President Trump's legal troubles.
The weekly meetings are scheduled for Fridays and are hosted by Norman Eisen, a CNN legal analyst and former Obama official, according to Politico Magazine.
"Do some of the people on the call align their positions as a result of their discussions? Yes, probably," Politico's Ankush Khardori wrote. "That can sound nefarious, but it is also the natural result of a group discussion that is working properly. People refine and clarify their positions. They find points of agreement that might surprise them. Their areas of disagreement become narrower, more precise."
Anti-Trump GOP commentators Bill Kristol and George Conway, liberal Harvard professor Laurence Tribe, former Nixon White House counsel John Dean, MSNBC legal analyst Andrew Weissmann, and former CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin regularly attend the Zoom discussion, Politico reported.
The call serves as a chance to discuss different legal arguments and, according to the outlet, helps to "to generate and shape content for Trump-hungry consumers."
This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News' Hanna Panreck Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 04:06:19 pm
This constiutes collaborative collusion at the highest level.
If we had an uncorrupt DOJ, this zoom club should be brought in for charges for felony election interference
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 23, 2024, 04:10:39 pm
Laura was great at deflecting rumors that the 2020 Election was stolen, especially in Arizona. I didn't watch her for three years because of that.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 04:18:41 pm
NYPost
10 minutes ago Pecker says he helped hatch plan to bury women's stories about Trump before 2016 election By Ben Kochman
David Pecker worked with Donald Trump and Michael Cohen to identify and "kill" women's stories about Trump before the 2016 election, he testified just now.
"They asked me what can I do and what my magazines can do to help the campaign," Pecker testified.
"Thinking about it, I said what I would do is I would run or publish positive stories about Mr. Trump, and publish negative stories about his opponents," Pecker added.
"I said I would be your eyes and ears, and then I said that anything I hear in the marketplace, if I hear anything about women selling stories, I would notify Michael Cohen," Pecker testified.
Quote
5 minutes ago Pecker says he thought women would sell stories about Trump before the 2016 election because he was 'well known as the most eligible bachelor' By Ben Kochman
When describing the August 2015 meeting at Trump Tower, David Pecker said he warned Donald Trump that women would try to sell stories about him as his presidential campaign heated up.
"I was the person that thought that there would be a lot of women to come out try to sell their stories because Mr. Trump was well known as the most eligible bachelor and dated the most beautiful women," Pecker said.
"It is my experience that when someone runs for office like this, it's very common for these women to call the National Enquirer and try to sell their stories."
Quote
a minute ago Trump stone-faced as Pecker dishes secrets about Trump agreement By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump has remained expressionless throughout David Pecker's testimony Tuesday morning — as David Pecker has been talking about Trump's agreement with the National Enquirer to bench negative stories that could hurt his 2016 presidential campaign.
Pecker testified that he had unwritten agreements with Trump ("It was an agreement amongst friends") when learning there was a negative story about Trump.
He said the agreement, which was "mutually beneficial" — meaning it would help Trump's campaign and help sell magazines.
Pecker testified that he didn't want anyone to know about the agreement, telling editors to "keep this as quiet as possible."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 04:29:52 pm
10 minutes ago Pecker says he helped hatch plan to bury women's stories about Trump before 2016 election By Ben Kochman
David Pecker worked with Donald Trump and Michael Cohen to identify and "kill" women's stories about Trump before the 2016 election, he testified just now.
"They asked me what can I do and what my magazines can do to help the campaign," Pecker testified.
"Thinking about it, I said what I would do is I would run or publish positive stories about Mr. Trump, and publish negative stories about his opponents," Pecker added.
"I said I would be your eyes and ears, and then I said that anything I hear in the marketplace, if I hear anything about women selling stories, I would notify Michael Cohen," Pecker testified.
Could Pecker turn on Trump? This could get bad.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 23, 2024, 04:36:18 pm
Two critical Cruz headlines were, "Ted Cruz Shame By Porn Star," published on Feb. 12, 2016, and "Boozin' Ted Cruz Fixin' to Lose," published on Feb. 19, 2016.
David Pecker said he would speak to Michael Cohen, then Trump's attorney, who would comment on them and adjust the stories if they needed tinkering.
"We would send him PDFs of the story before it was published to show him the direction the story was going," Pecker said about his correspondence with Cohen at the time.
He added that Cohen "would comment on them."
"We would add content... based on the information Michael Cohen shared," Pecker said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 04:55:48 pm
Kyle Griffin @kylegriffin1 · 14m David Pecker says Michael Cohen would call him after 2016 Republican presidential debates. Based on the success candidates had, Cohen would direct him and Enquirer editor-in-chief Dylan Howard on which candidate to target next in the magazine.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 05:33:24 pm
I've been calling it the Stone-Pecker slime machine since '16. Hmmm. It's going to be very interesting if we find out that Tumpy was more intricately involved in it, instead of hiring them as paid monkey operatives at the onset.
Well, not that this Orange POS' reputation could be any further sullied.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 23, 2024, 05:33:29 pm
Is any of this Pecker stuff relevant to the case of Trump having a NDA with this person? Is this just an attempt to rehabilitate Cohen in advance of his testimony?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 05:38:54 pm
Kyle Griffin @kylegriffin1 · 14m David Pecker says Michael Cohen would call him after 2016 Republican presidential debates. Based on the success candidates had, Cohen would direct him and Enquirer editor-in-chief Dylan Howard on which candidate to target next in the magazine.
Just more proof that Trump, the candidate was nothing more of a result of well placed strategic sliming than being a (faux) conservative voice to the GOP. We've pretty much understood how sleazy Trump was, but now we are getting proof of how actually bad he was.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: deb on April 23, 2024, 05:40:33 pm
I've been calling it the Stone-Pecker slime machine since '16. Hmmm. It's going to be very interesting if we find out that Tumpy was more intricately involved in it, instead of hiring them as paid monkey operatives at the onset.
Well, not that this Orange POS' reputation could be any further sullied.
"He that lieth down with dogs shall rise up with fleas"
Trump needs a better class of friends.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 05:42:08 pm
Is any of this Pecker stuff relevant to the case of Trump having a NDA with this person? Is this just an attempt to rehabilitate Cohen in advance of his testimony?
It isn't, but OTOH, it is tearing off the bandaid of some rehashing soe lingering anger some of us conservatives have had towards this orange trojan horse.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 05:42:26 pm
Quote
19 minutes ago Pecker says Trump introduced him to Steve Bannon, said the pair 'could work very well together' By Kyle Schnitzer
David Pecker testified that Donald Trump introduced him to political adviser Steve Bannon, and that Trump claimed the pair "would get along really well."
"[Trump] said, 'You and Steven [Bannon] would get along really well,' " Pecker said about the meeting he had with Trump.
Pecker said Trump told him Bannon had complimented the National Enquirer on some of its stories about Trump's political opponents — which attacked then-presidential candidates — in a mutual agreement that would benefit Trump and the tabloid's sales.
"He liked them very much and he had some ideas," Pecker said Trump told him.
He added that Trump "said he thought all of us could work very well together."
Pecker told the court that he sent a box of magazines with negative headlines about Trump's foes to Bannon, which included stories about Hillary Clinton.
The publisher then said Bannon had suggested that the National Enquirer should send a reporter on "The Hannity Show" to discuss the articles live on the air.
Trump's attorneys objected to the prosecution's questioning, which resulted in a sidebar where Emil Bove slammed the line of queries as "eliciting hearsay arguments." Prosecutors then moved on from the Bannon questioning.
Quote
19 minutes ago
David Pecker testified that he called Donald Trump fixer Michael Cohen right after getting a tip about a Trump Tower doorman who claimed to have knowledge of Trump having a secret love child with a maid.
Pecker said Enquirer editor Dylan Howard "came to me with a tip from a source" that Trump had had an "illegitimate girl" with a maid who "worked in Mr. Trump's house."
"I immediately called Michael Cohen and I described to him exactly what I was told by Dylan," Pecker said.
Pecker was asked how Cohen responded.
"'Absolutely not true, but I’ll check it out,'" Cohen said, according to Pecker.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 05:45:55 pm
Quote
a minute ago Why David Pecker bought doorman's phony story about Trump having illegitimate child By Kyle Schnitzer
David Pecker said that he bought a doorman's phony story claiming Donald Trump had an illegitimate child because it would have been an embarrassment to Trump's 2016 presidential run.
"It would have been very embarrassing for the campaign," he said about the article getting out.
Pecker agreed to pay doorman, Dino Sajudin, $30,000 for exclusive rights to the story, Pecker testified.
He said that if he had purchased the story, it would have been the tabloids most popular story since Elvis Presley's death.
“If I thought it was true, it would have probably been the biggest sale of the National Enquirer since the death of Elvis Presley," Pecker said.
At one point, Michael Cohen offered that Trump would take a DNA test that would show he's not the father because Trump is German-Irish and not Hispanic like the woman in question. But Pecker said he assured him that would not be necessary.
"I said I believe it's a big story, and I believe it's important that it should be removed from the market," Pecker recalled of a convo with Cohen.
Cohen responded that “the boss will be very pleased,” Pecker says. He testified earlier that Cohen had referred to Trump as "the boss."
Pecker said that he later learned that the story was "100% not true."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 06:09:07 pm
Done for the day
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 06:10:47 pm
Laura was great at deflecting rumors that the 2020 Election was stolen, especially in Arizona. I didn't watch her for three years because of that.
I don't watch her, either. Occasionally I'll stumble over her on my X feed.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 06:14:04 pm
Travis Media Group @TMGPolitics
JUST IN: David Pecker just testified that Trump was a very good man, and the first one to congratulate him on his successes. He’s not saying that Trump, Cohen, and him hatched a plan to bury any negative stories about Trump.
According to Pecker, if he heard anything about women telling stories, he’d notify Mr. Cohen. He informed Trump he’d be his “eyes and ears.”
12:13 PM · Apr 23, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 06:21:21 pm
Quote
9 minutes ago Trump worried that story about him paying hush money to Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal would 'get out,' Pecker says By Ben Kochman
Court ended for the day with David Pecker on the stand testifying about the National Enquirer's plan to "catch and kill" a story from Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal about a year-long affair she says she had with Donald Trump.
Pecker said he mostly dealt with Trump's then-fixer Michael Cohen, but that Trump called him about McDougal while Pecker was meeting with an Enquirer investor in New Jersey.
Pecker wanted to buy the story on Trump's behalf to bar McDougal from going public, but Trump initially feared that the truth would later emerge, Pecker said.
"He said, 'I don’t buy any stories. Any time you do anything like this, it always gets out,'" Pecker testified.
Pecker, Cohen and Trump later worked together to pay McDougal $150,000 to silence her -- in a payment that is now a key component of Trump's criminal trial, prosecutors say.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 06:22:06 pm
9 minutes ago Court ends for day, in recess until Thursday morning By Ben Kochman
With David Pecker still on the stand, court is now off until Thursday morning at 9:30.
We're off every Wednesday while Justice Juan Merchan deals with the other cases on his docket.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 23, 2024, 06:22:33 pm
JUST IN: David Pecker just testified that Trump was a very good man, and the first one to congratulate him on his successes. He’s not saying that Trump, Cohen, and him hatched a plan to bury any negative stories about Trump.
According to Pecker, if he heard anything about women telling stories, he’d notify Mr. Cohen. He informed Trump he’d be his “eyes and ears.”
12:13 PM · Apr 23, 2024
After today's testimony it seems Trump was a lot more involved in the Stone-Pecker slime machine, than just hiring them as operatives. After what these turds did to Cruz, Carson, et. al. .... If you agree that Trump is a "Very Good Man", then that says a whole hell of a lot about you. And it a'int good.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 06:23:38 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 06:28:39 pm
Quote
Raheem. @RaheemKassam
This ⬇️
Pecker effectively testified today that he and Cohen drummed up this scheme, without Trump's instruction.
Not a good day for Alvin Bragg and Joe Biden!!!
Quote
Travis Media Group @TMGPolitics
JUST IN: David Pecker just testified that he’s the one who told Trump women might come to him with stories, because Trump was such a popular bachelor who dated the most beautiful women.
Apparently Trump was just planning a campaign run, but Pecker and Cohen were the ones worried about women coming forward.
Does the prosecution realize they just made themselves look ridiculous? Their key witness just said Trump didn’t even come up with any of this.
12:18 PM · Apr 23, 2024
2:05 PM · Apr 23, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 23, 2024, 06:48:45 pm
5 minutes ago Some negative stories about Ben Carson, Ted Cruz shown to jurors By Kyle Schnitzer
Jurors are now being shown some of the National Enquirer's attacks on Ben Carson and Ted Cruz during the 2016 presidential campaign.
One negative story attacked Carson on Oct. 7, 2015, with the headline, "Bungling Surgeon Ben Carson Left sponge in patient’s brain!"
Two critical Cruz headlines were, "Ted Cruz Shame By Porn Star," published on Feb. 12, 2016, and "Boozin' Ted Cruz Fixin' to Lose," published on Feb. 19, 2016.
David Pecker said he would speak to Michael Cohen, then Trump's attorney, who would comment on them and adjust the stories if they needed tinkering.
"We would send him PDFs of the story before it was published to show him the direction the story was going," Pecker said about his correspondence with Cohen at the time.
He added that Cohen "would comment on them."
"We would add content... based on the information Michael Cohen shared," Pecker said.
How is any of this relevant to the charges pending in this case?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 23, 2024, 06:51:56 pm
19 minutes ago DA wants judge to fine Trump $10,000 but not jail him — though he's 'angling for that' By Ben Kochman and Kyle Schnitzer
The Manhattan DA's Office is urging Justice Juan Merchan to fine Donald Trump $10,000 for the 10 alleged gag order breaches.
Prosecutor Chris Conroy argued that the court should also force Trump to remove eight posts from Truth Social and two from his campaign website that take aim at the jury and at expected trial witnesses Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels.
Trump should simply say that he gave his Truth Social password over to Don Jr. or Barron, and that the posts came from them.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 06:52:38 pm
Pecker effectively testified today that he and Cohen drummed up this scheme, without Trump's instruction.
Not a good day for Alvin Bragg and Joe Biden!!!
Quote
Travis Media Group @TMGPolitics
JUST IN: David Pecker just testified that he’s the one who told Trump women might come to him with stories, because Trump was such a popular bachelor who dated the most beautiful women.
Apparently Trump was just planning a campaign run, but Pecker and Cohen were the ones worried about women coming forward.
Does the prosecution realize they just made themselves look ridiculous? Their key witness just said Trump didn’t even come up with any of this.
12:18 PM · Apr 23, 2024
2:05 PM · Apr 23, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 23, 2024, 07:34:22 pm
Just more proof that Trump, the candidate was nothing more of a result of well placed strategic sliming than being a (faux) conservative voice to the GOP. We've pretty much understood how sleazy Trump was, but now we are getting proof of how actually bad he was.
The Prosecution is on their first witness, I need a little more information before I declare Trump to be a crook.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 23, 2024, 07:36:21 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 23, 2024, 09:31:04 pm
Judge Juan Merchan’s ‘Manifestly Unfair’ Gag Order on Trump Comes Under Serious Legal Scrutiny
New York Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchan could fine former President Donald Trump up to $11,000 for violating a gag order that his legal team argues prevents him from defending himself publicly in a case where a Democrat district attorney is seeking to put him in jail.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 23, 2024, 11:18:07 pm
"Current and former world leaders are making their way to Trump Tower each week the President is being held prisoner in NYC for the Democrat’s show trial. Here’s the former PM of Japan. Last week it was the President of Poland." (Video)
The Prosecution is on their first witness, I need a little more information before I declare Trump to be a crook.
My contention is not as much a legal one, but just more proof and an example of where back in '16 Trump's sleazy dirty politics was taken to new lows. He crossed lines, and to this day, not only are we not holding him account to it, but instead are rewarding him with his 3rd consecutive GOP nomination.
His only slight out was that the Stone-Pecker slime machine though obviously funded by DJT, at least had a rogue element to it. But hearing today, it seems the orange menace might have had a more direct and intricate hand in it. We've had some fine conservatives taken to near ruination (RDS, Cruz) by this POS' antics.
I think he needs to pay.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 24, 2024, 12:05:10 am
My contention is not as much a legal one, but just more proof and an example of where back in '16 Trump's sleazy dirty politics was taken to new lows. He crossed lines, and to this day, not only are we not holding him account to it, but instead are rewarding him with his 3rd consecutive GOP nomination.
His only slight out was that the Stone-Pecker slime machine though obviously funded by DJT, at least had a rogue element to it. But hearing today, it seems the orange menace might have had a more direct and intricate hand in it. We've had some fine conservatives taken to near ruination (RDS, Cruz) by this POS' antics.
I think he needs to pay.
Totally agree.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 24, 2024, 12:07:40 am
In short, purposely telling lies to destroy someone is evil. I want nothing to do with those sorts of people. I will not vote for them, I will not associate with them. They are toxic.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 24, 2024, 12:10:18 am
In short, purposely telling lies to destroy someone is evil. I want nothing to do with those sorts of people. I will not vote for them, I will not associate with them. They are toxic.
In short, purposely telling lies to destroy someone is evil. I want nothing to do with those sorts of people. I will not vote for them, I will not associate with them. They are toxic.
Amen!!!! 888high58888
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 24, 2024, 12:39:11 am
My contention is not as much a legal one, but just more proof and an example of where back in '16 Trump's sleazy dirty politics was taken to new lows. He crossed lines, and to this day, not only are we not holding him account to it, but instead are rewarding him with his 3rd consecutive GOP nomination.
His only slight out was that the Stone-Pecker slime machine though obviously funded by DJT, at least had a rogue element to it. But hearing today, it seems the orange menace might have had a more direct and intricate hand in it. We've had some fine conservatives taken to near ruination (RDS, Cruz) by this POS' antics.
I think he needs to pay.
I agree 100%. There has been zero remorse. Zero admission. Zero apology. Not only from Trump, but from his zealots as well as evidenced on this very thread. But this trial isn't the arena for settling the score. One does not excuse the other. The ends do not justify the means.
I hope Trump is found not guilty, not because I'm an #AlwaysTrumper, but because he is not guilty of what he is being prosecuted for. As for him paying, the only ones who will be paying are Conservatives who will be saddled with four more years of Democrat-lite and another $8 trillion of new debt.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 24, 2024, 12:48:56 am
Where is the example of 'virtue signaling'? Please show the exact quote. Or is this yet another example of you posting the first dishonest thing that pops up in your head?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 24, 2024, 12:50:49 am
(https://i.imgflip.com/39e3c7.jpg)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 24, 2024, 12:53:47 am
I agree 100%. There has been zero remorse. Zero admission. Zero apology. Not only from Trump, but from his zealots as well as evidenced on this very thread. But this trial isn't the arena for settling the score. One does not excuse the other. The ends do not justify the means.
I hope Trump is found not guilty, not because I'm an #AlwaysTrumper, but because he is not guilty of what he is being prosecuted for. As for him paying, the only ones who will be paying are Conservatives who will be saddled with four more years of Democrat-lite and another $8 trillion of new debt.
I fully agree with that too.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on April 24, 2024, 01:59:30 am
Where is the example of 'virtue signaling'? Please show the exact quote. Or is this yet another example of you posting the first dishonest thing that pops up in your head?
The entire post was a "virtue signal". Use the word "I" three times in succession.
Quote
I want nothing to do with those sorts of people. I will not vote for them, I will not associate with them.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 24, 2024, 02:05:54 am
My contention is not as much a legal one, but just more proof and an example of where back in '16 Trump's sleazy dirty politics was taken to new lows. He crossed lines, and to this day, not only are we not holding him account to it, but instead are rewarding him with his 3rd consecutive GOP nomination.
His only slight out was that the Stone-Pecker slime machine though obviously funded by DJT, at least had a rogue element to it. But hearing today, it seems the orange menace might have had a more direct and intricate hand in it. We've had some fine conservatives taken to near ruination (RDS, Cruz) by this POS' antics.
I think he needs to pay.
BIG YUP. And certainly not rewarded.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: roamer_1 on April 24, 2024, 02:35:09 am
In short, purposely telling lies to destroy someone is evil. I want nothing to do with those sorts of people. I will not vote for them, I will not associate with them. They are toxic.
That's right.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: roamer_1 on April 24, 2024, 02:36:33 am
The entire post was a "virtue signal". Use the word "I" three times in succession.
Unless of course, it's actual virtue.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: 240B on April 24, 2024, 02:44:49 am
Well, regardless of the bogus charges, or the bogus judge, or the bogus jurors, I HOPE TRUMP IS EXECUTED THEN BURNED AT THE STAKE THEN TORTURED! AND THEN FED TO PIGS! TRUMP IS SATAN ON EARTH! F**K THE 'LAW'! F**K THE CONSTITUTION! F**K NORMAL HUMAN CONSCIENCE!
BURN THE WITCH!!!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 24, 2024, 02:48:13 am
Can you imagine Biden even being 'awake' at midnight?
Can you imagine Biden speaking 40 minutes with no teleprompter without mentioning Corn-Pop and cannibals?
I will not compare the person Trump to the messiah Christ. However, this trial is very similar to the Biblical records of Christ's trial, without the beatings. The crucifixion of Trump would definitely happen ... if the Democrats could get away with it ... if we were back in those times.
And the crowds would cheer ...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 24, 2024, 01:58:54 pm
As I watch this thread, it dawns on me who the target audience is with these show trials....
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on April 24, 2024, 02:29:34 pm
As I watch this thread, it dawns on me who the target audience is with these show trials....
Personally, I am beyond sick about all of it. My BP redlines if I follow too closely.
They're going to make a national hero out of the assassin...John Hinckley, Oswald or John Wilkes Boothe will be pikers i comparison thanks to social media.
It's gone so far now that even if he suspended his campaign, he's still a dead man walking.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on April 24, 2024, 02:43:53 pm
Personally, I am beyond sick about all of it. My BP redlines if I follow too closely.
They're going to make a national hero out of the assassin...John Hinckley, Oswald or John Wilkes Boothe will be pikers i comparison thanks to social media.
It's gone so far now that even if he suspended his campaign, he's still a dead man walking.
Trump's safety is something that I have been concerned about for quite sometime. As I have stated before, the leftists are going to do and use whatever it takes to prevent him from being re-elected. They are never going to give up their power and they are never going to let him be seated in the WH.
Prayers up for Trump's safety and the safety of his family.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 24, 2024, 04:40:00 pm
Personally, I am beyond sick about all of it. My BP redlines if I follow too closely.
They're going to make a national hero out of the assassin...John Hinckley, Oswald or John Wilkes Boothe will be pikers i comparison thanks to social media.
It's gone so far now that even if he suspended his campaign, he's still a dead man walking.
The fascists are running out of time and options @DCPatriot Polling update out today:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 24, 2024, 05:30:06 pm
Quote
Stephen Miller @StephenM
This is not a trial. This is a Biden-Democrat SHOW TRIAL. Merchan (Biden donor), like so many other Democrat judges in anti-GOP prosecutions, is forbidding the defense from defending their innocent client. A Democrat judge and prosecutor hiding evidence from a Democrat jury.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 24, 2024, 06:09:41 pm
Quote
Stephen Miller @StephenM
I don’t think people have fully internalized just how wicked this communist Biden show trial in Manhattan really is. The presumptive Republican nominee for president, the opposition leader, Joe Biden’s chief political rival, has been removed by force from the campaign trail by a local Democrat prosecutor and local Democrat judge — thereby preventing Trump, every minute he is on trial, from campaigning for president, fundraising, or from aiding in the retake of the Senate or control of the House.
The fate of our democracy, our sovereignty, safety and liberty, of war and peace, hinge on an election now underway, and a partisan Democrat prosecutor and judge has subordinated that entire national election — the franchise of every voting citizen — beneath this sick hoax of a trial.
A trial for a non-crime almost one decade old based on repudiated nonsense nearly two decades old but which somehow requires a criminal trial right now.
Democracy does indeed need saving: OURS.
1:55 PM · Apr 24, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on April 24, 2024, 06:22:21 pm
At this point, the polls don't impress me whatsoever.
In fact, the wider the gap, the more danger President Trump is in. They're going to kill him. Guaranteed.
Wish Donald Trump, Jr. was getting his chops since 2016 instead of shacking up with Kimberly Guilfoyle...who incidentally shacked up with "Mr. Hair" Gavin Newsom.
FEEL LIKE WE'RE LIVING IN A ROBERT LUDLUM NOVEL! Or, is it really Sidney Sheldon?? /s
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 25, 2024, 01:50:29 am
A recap from the swill before Pecker's testimony begins in the AM.
Pecker testimony reveals backroom deals that helped Trump win 2016
BY ELLA LEE - 04/24/24 6:00 AM ET
NEW YORK — The sordid details of shady backroom dealings spilled out in open court Tuesday when ex-National Enquirer publisher David Pecker confessed his magazine used “checkbook journalism” to pay off sources with unsavory stories about Donald Trump.
The longtime executive admitted to a judge and a jury that his job was to “catch and kill” bad press centered on Trump, including allegations of affairs and children born out of wedlock.
As the Manhattan district attorney’s lead witness, Pecker’s testimony bolstered the theory at the heart of the state’s case — that Trump and his allies attempted to influence the outcome of the 2016 election by burying bad news about Trump while elevating wild claims that were embarrassing to his political opponents.
That alleged conspiracy underpins the 34 felony counts of falsifying business records Trump faces in connection with one of the hush money deals. He’s pleaded not guilty to the charges.
And there’s more to come. Pecker is again expected to take the stand Thursday when the trial will next be held.
A recap from the swill before Pecker's testimony begins in the AM.
Pecker testimony reveals backroom deals that helped Trump win 2016
BY ELLA LEE - 04/24/24 6:00 AM ET
NEW YORK — The sordid details of shady backroom dealings spilled out in open court Tuesday when ex-National Enquirer publisher David Pecker confessed his magazine used “checkbook journalism” to pay off sources with unsavory stories about Donald Trump.
The longtime executive admitted to a judge and a jury that his job was to “catch and kill” bad press centered on Trump, including allegations of affairs and children born out of wedlock.
As the Manhattan district attorney’s lead witness, Pecker’s testimony bolstered the theory at the heart of the state’s case — that Trump and his allies attempted to influence the outcome of the 2016 election by burying bad news about Trump while elevating wild claims that were embarrassing to his political opponents.
That alleged conspiracy underpins the 34 felony counts of falsifying business records Trump faces in connection with one of the hush money deals. He’s pleaded not guilty to the charges.
And there’s more to come. Pecker is again expected to take the stand Thursday when the trial will next be held.
However, under cross-examination, Pecker’s revelations seemed to unravel the narrative that had been carefully constructed by the prosecution. Pecker testified that it was not Trump, but he and former Trump attorney Michael Cohen who were primarily concerned about potentially harmful stories due to Trump’s celebrity status and history with women.
However, under cross-examination, Pecker’s revelations seemed to unravel the narrative that had been carefully constructed by the prosecution. Pecker testified that it was not Trump, but he and former Trump attorney Michael Cohen who were primarily concerned about potentially harmful stories due to Trump’s celebrity status and history with women.
Pecker effectively testified today that he and Cohen drummed up this scheme, without Trump's instruction.
Not a good day for Alvin Bragg and Joe Biden!!!
Quote
Travis Media Group @TMGPolitics
JUST IN: David Pecker just testified that he’s the one who told Trump women might come to him with stories, because Trump was such a popular bachelor who dated the most beautiful women.
Apparently Trump was just planning a campaign run, but Pecker and Cohen were the ones worried about women coming forward.
Does the prosecution realize they just made themselves look ridiculous? Their key witness just said Trump didn’t even come up with any of this.
12:18 PM · Apr 23, 2024
2:05 PM · Apr 23, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 25, 2024, 03:23:09 am
However, under cross-examination, Pecker’s revelations seemed to unravel the narrative that had been carefully constructed by the prosecution. Pecker testified that it was not Trump, but he and former Trump attorney Michael Cohen who were primarily concerned about potentially harmful stories due to Trump’s celebrity status and history with women.
Doesn't really matter. Politicians paying people to shut up about personal conduct that isn't criminal isn't a crime. It has been done as long as there's been politicians.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on April 25, 2024, 03:56:08 am
I didn't miss it @Right_in_Virginia as a matter of fact I saw it this morning just figured another spin from the Trump camp. Pecker being on the witness stand is about Trump spin is it not?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 25, 2024, 01:07:10 pm
Former President Donald Trump will be back in a New York City courtroom Thursday as his business records trial resumes after a day’s break.
His appearance comes as the U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments in Washington, DC, over whether he should be immune from prosecution for actions he took during his time as president. Nine justices will hear the case that will define the scope of presidential power.
Trump is the first former president to have been charged with federal crimes.
AP reports jurors in NYC meanwhile will hear more witness testimony from a veteran tabloid publisher, and the former president faces a looming decision over whether he violated a gag order imposed by the judge.
more https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2024/04/25/trump-back-in-new-york-city-courtroom-as-trial-resumes/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 25, 2024, 01:49:10 pm
‘USA’ Chants Erupt As Trump Makes Campaign Stop With Union Workers
Julianna Frieman Contributor April 25, 2024 9:31 AM ET
“USA” chants broke out Thursday morning in New York as former President Donald Trump made a campaign stop with union workers.
Trump squeezed in a meeting with members of the Teamsters union at a construction site in Manhattan around 6 a.m. before attending his trial on alleged falsified business records relating to payment for a nondisclosure agreement with former porn star Stormy Daniels.
Video shows crowds of union workers, some wearing neon vests and hard hats, chanting “USA,” “We want Trump” and “We love Trump,” as the former president can be seen signing hats and engaging with those lining the streets.
‘USA’ Chants Erupt As Trump Makes Campaign Stop With Union Workers
Julianna Frieman Contributor April 25, 2024 9:31 AM ET
“USA” chants broke out Thursday morning in New York as former President Donald Trump made a campaign stop with union workers.
Trump squeezed in a meeting with members of the Teamsters union at a construction site in Manhattan around 6 a.m. before attending his trial on alleged falsified business records relating to payment for a nondisclosure agreement with former porn star Stormy Daniels.
Video shows crowds of union workers, some wearing neon vests and hard hats, chanting “USA,” “We want Trump” and “We love Trump,” as the former president can be seen signing hats and engaging with those lining the streets.
‘USA’ Chants Erupt As Trump Makes Campaign Stop With Union Workers
Julianna Frieman Contributor April 25, 2024 9:31 AM ET
“USA” chants broke out Thursday morning in New York as former President Donald Trump made a campaign stop with union workers.
Trump squeezed in a meeting with members of the Teamsters union at a construction site in Manhattan around 6 a.m. before attending his trial on alleged falsified business records relating to payment for a nondisclosure agreement with former porn star Stormy Daniels.
Video shows crowds of union workers, some wearing neon vests and hard hats, chanting “USA,” “We want Trump” and “We love Trump,” as the former president can be seen signing hats and engaging with those lining the streets.
President Cruz would be finishing up his second term and handing it off to Gov. DeSantis without the disillusion of the Trumpers.
That's what should have happened. Unfortunately smearing and lying about candidates and making empty promises won. Hello - liberalism hasn't worked in the past, isn't working now and sure as heck won't work in the future.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 02:35:44 pm
Please try to keep this thread on topic...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 02:38:06 pm
DAY 8
Trump compliments prosecution's first witness in criminal trial: 'very nice'
Former President Donald Trump lauded the first witness in his trial in Manhattan, former tabloid publisher David Pecker, as a "nice guy" earlier Thursday ahead of court.
"He’s been very nice. David’s been very nice. He’s a nice guy," Trump told the media while meeting with construction crews in the city early Thursday morning.
Pecker is the prosecution team's first witness in the NY v. Trump case, where the 45th president is facing 34 charges of falsifying business records.
Pecker is the former CEO of American Media Inc., the parent company of publications such as the National Enquirer, who has known Trump stretching back to the 1980s. The former media publisher took the stand earlier this week, where he testified regarding "catch and kill schemes" to allegedly bury negative information about Trump ahead of the 2016 election.
"Catch-and-kill" schemes are understood as tactics used by media and publishing companies to buy the rights of a person’s story with no intention of publishing it. The NY v. Trump case specifically revolves around a payment of $130,000 given to former pornographic actress Stormy Daniels by former Trump personal attorney in 2016 to allegedly silence her claims she had an extramarital affair with Trump in 2006.
Pecker testified Thursday that he first heard of Daniels' claims of a sexual affair with Trump after the notorious "Access Hollywood" tape was unearthed ahead of the election in 2016. He said that Daniels was selling rights to her story for $120,000, which Pecker said the media company could not afford.
"I am not a bank," Pecker said he told National Enquirer editor Dylan Howard of the tip and sale of Daniels' story. Howard then told Pecker he would contact Cohen about the matter, Pecker said.
Prosecutors allege that after Cohen paid Daniels in exchange for silence on the alleged affair, Trump fraudulently logged reimbursements to the personal lawyer as legal expenses. Prosecutors in the case are trying to prove that Trump falsified business records in "furtherance of another crime." The DA's office said the other crime is the violation of a New York law against "conspiracy to promote or prevent election."
Fox News Digital's Emma Colton contributed to this update. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 02:38:45 pm
Trump says he can't be with wife Melania on her birthday due to 'rigged' trial
Former President Trump wished his wife Melania a "very happy birthday" on Friday morning and complained that he could not spend the day with her because of his "rigged" trial.
Trump spoke to reporters moments before he entered the courtroom for the continuation of his criminal trial on charges of falsifying business records.
"I want to start by wishing my wife Melania a very happy birthday. It'd be nice to be with her but I'm in a courthouse for a rigged trial," Trump said.
The former president and presumptive Republican nominee for 2024 said yesterday's proceedings went "very well" and that his trial "should be over."
"I think we have a judge who will never allow the case to be over in a positive way, he's highly conflicted," Trump said, taking a shot at presiding Judge Juan Merchan.
He also commented on Thursday's Supreme Court hearing on his claim of presidential immunity, calling his attorney's arguments "brilliant."
"I listened to it last night, I thought it was really great. I thought the judge's questions were really great," Trump said. "All presidents have to have immunity, it has nothing to do with me," he asserted.
Trump told reporters he will return to Florida after the trial warps up today to be with his wife. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 26, 2024, 02:58:46 pm
The reason this judge has chosen Wednesday instead of Friday as the off day for this trial is to keep Orthodox (i.e. Conservative) Jews from serving on the jury.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 26, 2024, 03:07:23 pm
The reason this judge has chosen Wednesday instead of Friday as the off day for this trial is to keep Orthodox (i.e. Conservative) Jews from serving on the jury.
That is correct.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 04:10:27 pm
16 minutes ago Trump attorney says less than an hour left of Pecker testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Just before the first break, Donald Trump's attorney Emil Bove said he expects he has less than an hour left grilling ex-National Enquirer publisher David Pecker on cross-examination.
Manhattan ADA Joshua Steinglass said there will be redirect.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 04:30:15 pm
Trump lawyer Emil Bove finishes with cross-examination of David Pecker; DA's redirect begins
Trump attorney Emil Bove just finished cross-examining David Pecker.
Now prosecutor Joshua Steinglass is questioning the ex-Enquirer boss for what's called redirect examination, where he's allowed to ask Pecker to clarify his earlier testimony.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 04:59:38 pm
3 minutes ago Pecker says most Arnold Schwarzenegger payments were between $500 and $2K By Kyle Schnitzer
Under redirect, where the prosecution gets to question its witness a second time, after the defense's cross-examination, David Pecker said that most of his payments to bury bad stories about Arnold Schwarzenegger were between $500 and $2,000 — but never anything close to $150,000.
"Did you spend anything close to $150,000 to suppress a story for Arnold Schwarzenegger's campaign?" Manhattan ADA Joshua Steinglass asked.
"No," Pecker replied.
Pecker said that the most he had ever spent to suppress one of Schwarzenegger's stories was $20,000.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 05:47:11 pm
34 minutes ago National Enquirer readers loved reading positive stories about Trump: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Just before the break, David Pecker testified that the National Enquirer's readers loved reading positive stories about Donald Trump — and how his run for the presidency made sales boom.
“All that base loved reading positive stories about Donald Trump,” Pecker told prosecutors on redirect.
“And when he announced his presidency, going from 'The Apprentice' to running for the president of the United States, our sales increased. Newsstand sales increased."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 26, 2024, 06:32:14 pm
34 minutes ago National Enquirer readers loved reading positive stories about Trump: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Just before the break, David Pecker testified that the National Enquirer's readers loved reading positive stories about Donald Trump — and how his run for the presidency made sales boom.
“All that base loved reading positive stories about Donald Trump,” Pecker told prosecutors on redirect.
“And when he announced his presidency, going from 'The Apprentice' to running for the president of the United States, our sales increased. Newsstand sales increased."
Is there a point to that argument?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: rustynail on April 26, 2024, 07:18:17 pm
Trump's Pecker is screwing the prosecution’s case.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on April 26, 2024, 07:31:00 pm
Even worse, Pecker is the prosecution's witness.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on April 26, 2024, 07:32:33 pm
Exactly. In this trial, the Prosecution has every incentive to drag this out as long as possible to keep Trump off the campaign trail. This can only work if they can get their own guy on the trail, and only if he's capable of convincing people to get on his side.
Is this a recipe for an extremely low turnout in November?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 07:45:14 pm
41 minutes ago Former Trump assistant now under cross-examination By Kyle Schnitzer
Rhona Graff is being quizzed by Donald Trump attorney Susan Necheles under cross-examination.
34 minutes ago Trump had ‘rockstar status’ during the height of ‘The Apprentice’: ex-assistant By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump's former assistant said the former president was at "rockstar status" during the height of his popular reality TV show "The Apprentice."
Rhona Graff has been spending the past five minutes during cross-examination gushing about her former boss.
When asked about her experience at the Trump Organization, Graff said it was "exciting" during her 34-year tenure.
"I never had the same day twice. It was a very stimulating, exciting, fascinating place to be," she testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 08:00:45 pm
29 minutes ago Trump thought about having porn star Stormy Daniels on 'Celebrity Apprentice, ' assistant says By Kyle Schnitzer
Former Donald Trump assistant Rhona Graff said she recalls Trump saying that Stormy Daniels “may have been an interesting candidate" for "Celebrity Apprentice."
Trump attorney Susan Necheles asked Graff whether she heard Trump say she would be an interesting addition to the show. Graff said she didn't hear it directly from Trump, but "it was part of the office chatter."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 08:02:06 pm
Gary Farro begins testimony as next witness in Trump hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
The next witness is Gary Farro, a former senior managing director at First Republic Bank. How he relates to the alleged crimes here is not immediately clear.
Quote
7 minutes ago Witness says he was Michael Cohen's banker By Kyle Schnitzer
Gary Farro testified that he used to be the banker for Michael Cohen at First Republic Bank.
"Michael did a lot of his own business and I didn't find him difficult," Farro said, adding that he worked with Cohen from 2015 to around 2019.
Farro used to be the director at First Republic Bank.
Quote
a minute ago Witness was assigned to Cohen because he could handle 'challenging' individuals
Gary Farro said he was given Michael Cohen as a client due to his "ability to handle individuals that may be a little challenging."
"Frankly, I didn't find him that difficult," Farro said of Cohen.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 26, 2024, 08:06:06 pm
Done for the day.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 01:43:54 pm
DAY 9
Trump just fined 8k for violation of gag order
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 01:45:18 pm
Former President Donald Trump returns to court for his Stormy Daniels “hush money” trial.
Gary Farro is set to resume testimony. Farro was ex-Trump lawyer Michael Cohen’s banker at First Republic Bank.
Farro testified he set up a shell company for Cohen that wired $130K to porn star Stormy Daniels.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 30, 2024, 01:47:19 pm
Wish Trump would handle the payment in true moral equivalancy fashion....
(https://c.tenor.com/oPC6zSv08AUAAAAC/tenor.gif)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 01:51:15 pm
Judge Juan Merchan ordered former President Trump to pay $9,000 in fines for repeatedly violating his gag order on Tuesday.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg had accused Trump of violating the order 11 times last week, calling on Merchan to impose a $1,000 fine for each incident. Merchan sided with prosecutors on nine of the instances.
Merchan imposed the gag order on April 1, prohibiting Trump from speaking publicly about witnesses and the family members of certain court officials.
Bragg's office pointed to multiple social media posts and press appearances in which Trump criticized, or shared criticism of, former lawyer Michael Cohen and pornography actress Stormy Daniels. Both individuals are serving as witnesses against Trump. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 01:51:52 pm
5 minutes ago Judge says trial will break next month for Trump to attend son Barron's graduation
Donald Trump will be allowed to take Friday, May 17 off from the hush money trial to attend his son Barron's high school graduation ceremony, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan said.
“I don’t think the May 17 date is not a problem, so Mr. Trump can attend that date, attend his son’s graduation," Merchan said at the start of today's hearing.
Trump had falsely claimed earlier in the trial that the judge had barred him from attending Barron's graduation from Oxbridge Academy in Palm Beach, Florida.
In fact, the judge had told Trump during jury selection that he would decide the issue at a later date.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Wingnut on April 30, 2024, 01:55:44 pm
How much does 900K penny's weigh?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 02:02:51 pm
4.67 X 900,000 = 4.203 Million Grams divided by 453.59 gms/pound = 9,266 pounds.
And of course, provide them un-rolled.
Nice!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on April 30, 2024, 02:15:33 pm
Call his bluff.
Jailing a man for NDA shenanigans? While a perp walk to the slammer will be a wet dream for the MSNBC slugs, it might add another 2-3 points to the Trump poll advantage.
Do it Donny....
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 02:27:05 pm
5 things you didn't know about the Trump trial
1. Former President Trump missed his wife, former First Lady Melania Trump’s birthday, due to the requirement for him to attend each day of his criminal trial. Trump also may not be able to attend his youngest son Barron Trump’s high school graduation, on May 17, due to the trial. The judge says he will consider that request as the date approaches and based on how the trial is going.
2. Federal prosecutors in 2018 and 2019 investigated the alleged hush money payments, but opted against charging Trump. The Federal Election Commission also investigated the matter but tossed its probe.
3. Prosecutors intend to call Trump’s former personal attorney, Michael Cohen, to the stand to testify on the alleged payments. He has been considered a star witness. But Cohen, in 2018, pleaded guilty to campaign finance violations, making false statements to Congress and tax evasion. He was sentenced to three years in prison.
4. The daughter of Judge Juan Merchan, who is presiding over the trial, works for a firm that services primarily Democratic politicians. Loren Merchan has worked on campaigns for Trump foe Rep. Adam Schiff, who pushed the debunked Trump-Russia collusion investigation during his presidency; as well as Vice President Kamala Harris’ 2020 presidential campaign.
5. The criminal trial in New York is based on charges of falsifying business records in the first degree, which is typically considered a misdemeanor. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has brought the charges against Trump on a separate legal theory – that the alleged falsification of records was done “in furtherance of another crime.” Prosecutors say that crime was an attempt to promote or prevent election –referring to the 2016 election.
Posted by Anders Hagstrom Fox News
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Wingnut on April 30, 2024, 02:52:57 pm
Jailing a man for NDA shenanigans? While a perp walk to the slammer will be a wet dream for the MSNBC slugs, it might add another 2-3 points to the Trump poll advantage.
Do it Donny....
Ditto. Can you Imagine the wall-to-wall coverage! Trump in bracelets. The perp walk to the Grey Bar hotel. The new Mug shot. Ratings gold man. Even MSNBC could pick up 2 new viewers.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 02:57:15 pm
a minute ago Michael Cohen's ex banker Gary Farro finishes testifying; court takes 15-minute break
Gary Farro, who testified that he helped set up a shell company that Michael Cohen used to pay off Stormy Daniels, is now off the stand.
Farro said that Cohen did not tell him that the company would be used to pay an "adult entertainment" star, and that he would have "certainly" asked "additional questions" if he'd been told.
"It is an industry that we do not work with," he said on the stand. "We might consider that a reputational risk."
The trial will resume with a new witness after a 15-minute break.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 03:39:23 pm
It doesn't matter if the gag order is lawful or not -- they have Trump right where they want him and if they have an excuse to lock him up, they're going to. My fear is that once he's cuffed, he's never going to make it out alive.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 03:52:03 pm
3 minutes ago Pecker says most Arnold Schwarzenegger payments were between $500 and $2K By Kyle Schnitzer
Under redirect, where the prosecution gets to question its witness a second time, after the defense's cross-examination, David Pecker said that most of his payments to bury bad stories about Arnold Schwarzenegger were between $500 and $2,000 — but never anything close to $150,000.
"Did you spend anything close to $150,000 to suppress a story for Arnold Schwarzenegger's campaign?" Manhattan ADA Joshua Steinglass asked.
"No," Pecker replied.
Pecker said that the most he had ever spent to suppress one of Schwarzenegger's stories was $20,000.
Alan Jacoby @AlanJacobyJr
Bill Clinton paid Paula Jones $850,000 in hush money
11:54 PM · Apr 29, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 04:01:46 pm
24 minutes ago Prosecutors call director of C-SPAN archives to the stand
Prosecutors have called their next witness: Robert Browning, executive director of the C-SPAN archives.
4 minutes ago C-SPAN director off stand after jurors hear Trump denials about women
The DA's office used the C-SPAN witness to introduce videos into evidence in which Trump rails against women who came forward with allegations against him a month before the 2016 presidential election.
“It’s a phony idea! I have no idea who these women are,” Trump says in one of the videos.
Trump watched the video of his younger self speaking on a video screen inside the courtroom.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 04:02:57 pm
5 minutes ago C-SPAN director off stand after jurors hear Trump denials about women
The DA's office used the C-SPAN witness to introduce videos into evidence in which Trump rails against women who came forward with allegations against him a month before the 2016 presidential election.
“It’s a phony idea! I have no idea who these women are,” Trump says in one of the videos.
Trump watched the video of his younger self speaking on a video screen inside the courtroom. 11 minutes ago Communications aide to Trump enters courthouse By David Spector
Natalie Harp an aide to former President Trump was spotted entering the courthouse today.
Andrew Giuliani, Eric Trump, and Texas AG Ken Paxton were all seen at the courthouse.
She took a seat a row back from Eric Trump in the gallery.
(https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/04/communications-aide-former-us-president-80955281.jpg?quality=90&strip=all) Trump aide Natalie Harp was seen entering the courtroom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 04:03:40 pm
"Below are the Truth Social posts Judge Merchan has ordered Trump to delete today by 2:15PM. Merchan desperately doesn’t want people to see these posts. Make sure to share with friends."
"Below are the Truth Social posts Judge Merchan has ordered Trump to delete today by 2:15PM. Merchan desperately doesn’t want people to see these posts. Make sure to share with friends."
lol... just what constitutes "delete" in the modern era of social media. I can't imagine that this judge is that stupid.
You can't? I sure can. I've met a few that were as stupid as a box of rocks, and that was in Domestic Relations. I don't see why Judges in other courts would be any brighter.
I also knew some that were bright as whips.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Wingnut on April 30, 2024, 04:22:23 pm
Reminds of the young teen who asked her mother if you can get pregnant from anal sex. Yes dear. Where do you think Democrats come from.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 04:33:47 pm
Bad Hombre @joma_gc
Day 9. Still no crime.
8:49 AM · Apr 30, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 04:40:16 pm
"TRUMP FULL REMARKS--WEEK 3 ---Talks weaponized government, campus protests, debating Biden and the new TIME article. Biden could never speak for over 6 minutes straight like this"
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 04:43:17 pm
32 minutes ago Prosecutors call Stormy Daniels' ex-lawyer Keith Davidson to the stand By Ben Kochman
The prosecution's next witness is Keith Davidson, an attorney who once represented Stormy Daniels.
Michael Cohen's $130,000 hush money payment to Daniels was wired to Davidson's account, court records say.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 04:53:57 pm
9 minutes ago Playboy model Karen McDougal told her lawyer about 'sexual' affair with married Trump By Ben Kochman
Karen McDougal, the Playboy model who says she had a year-long affair with a married Donald Trump, told her lawyer about the "sexual" and "romantic" relationship, the attorney testified Tuesday.
"Ms. McDougal alleged that she had had a romantic affair with Donald Trump some years prior," lawyer Keith Davidson said, while describing a series of texts he traded with National Enquirer editor Dylan Howard in the summer of 2016.
“When you say romantic, does that mean sexual?” prosecutor Joshua Steinglass then asked Davidson.
“That’s what she expressed,” Davidson testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on April 30, 2024, 05:57:03 pm
9 minutes ago Playboy model Karen McDougal told her lawyer about 'sexual' affair with married Trump By Ben Kochman
Karen McDougal, the Playboy model who says she had a year-long affair with a married Donald Trump, told her lawyer about the "sexual" and "romantic" relationship, the attorney testified Tuesday.
"Ms. McDougal alleged that she had had a romantic affair with Donald Trump some years prior," lawyer Keith Davidson said, while describing a series of texts he traded with National Enquirer editor Dylan Howard in the summer of 2016.
“When you say romantic, does that mean sexual?” prosecutor Joshua Steinglass then asked Davidson.
“That’s what she expressed,” Davidson testified.
Is this hearsay?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 06:00:26 pm
Trump needs to pen a pseudonym as a surrogate and force the judge to spend 10,000's of court hours to prove it's him.
Hold a reposting olympics, and award trophies to the subscribers re-posting the most DJT items about the judge. Extra points for innovative typos and comedic jewels.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 06:27:05 pm
Jonathan Turley @JonathanTurley
The Court notably includes the following statement in the contempt order: "It is critically important that Defendant's legitimate free speech rights not be curtailed, that he be able to fully campaign fot the office which he seeks and that he be able to respond and defend himself against political attacks."
However, he cannot respond to Michael Cohen who has continued to attack him, campaign against his election, and discuss the case. That is not what some of us view as a "narrowly tailored" order.
2:07 PM · Apr 30, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on April 30, 2024, 06:37:12 pm
The Court notably includes the following statement in the contempt order: "It is critically important that Defendant's legitimate free speech rights not be curtailed, that he be able to fully campaign fot the office which he seeks and that he be able to respond and defend himself against political attacks."
However, he cannot respond to Michael Cohen who has continued to attack him, campaign against his election, and discuss the case. That is not what some of us view as a "narrowly tailored" order.
2:07 PM · Apr 30, 2024
And then there's this:
Benny Johnson @bennyjohnson
Judge Merchan fined Trump $9k for violating his Gag Order and threatened “incarceratory punishment” if he does it again.
They are going to JAIL HIM for talking.
For exercising his First Amendment rights.
The greatest threat to American democracy is not Trump, it’s corrupt activist Judges!
2:27 PM · Apr 30, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 06:42:44 pm
5 minutes ago Lawyer for Stormy Daniels, Karen McDougal resumes testimony
Keith Davidson, who represented both Karen McDougal and Stormy Daniels, has resumed testimony.
Right now he's being asked about details of the negotiations between McDougal and the National Enquirer magazine that ended with McDougal being paid $150,000 to stay quiet about her alleged affair with Donald Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 07:32:58 pm
10 minutes ago 'Trump is f—d,' Stormy Daniels' lawyer texted Enquirer editor after 'Access Hollywood' tape emerged By Ben Kochman
After news broke in October 2016 of Donald Trump bragging on a hot mic about grabbing women by their genitals, Stormy Daniels' lawyer texted "Trump is f—d" to the editor of the National Enquirer, trial evidence released Tuesday shows.
“Wave the white flag. It's over people!” responded the Enquirer's editor, Dylan Howard, evidence shows.
But Daniels' attorney, Keith Davidson, noted in another text that things "could get a lot worse" for Trump if Daniels went public right before the 2016 election with her claim about having a one-night affair with the married real estate mogul, he testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 07:58:17 pm
12 minutes ago Stormy Daniels' lawyer based Trump's pseudonym in hush money deal on high school friend 'David Dennison' - who is now 'upset'
The non-disclosure agreement struck between Stormy Daniels and Donald Trump's camp before the 2016 election used fake names — "Peggy Peterson" for Daniels and "David Dennison" for Trump, Daniels' attorney testified.
Lawyer Keith Davidson told jurors that using the pseudonyms was his idea. The plan was to use names starting with "P" for plaintiff, and "D" for defendant, but Davidson ended up basing Trump's pseudonym on an actual man named David Dennison who member of his high school hockey team, he said.
"How does he feel about you now?" prosecutor Joshua Steinglass asked Davidson, referring to the real Dennison.
"He’s very upset," Davidson replied, flashing a smile.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on April 30, 2024, 08:51:59 pm
17 minutes ago Court breaks until Thursday with Stormy Daniels' lawyer still on the stand
Court just broke for the day, with Keith Davidson, a former lawyer for Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, still on the stand.
The trial is off Wednesdays, and will start back up at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday.
12 minutes ago Trump slams 'conflicted' judge, 'nonsense' case in post-trial remarks By David Spector
Trump left the courtroom at 4:30 pm and lamented that he's "sitting a courthouse all day long," in remarks after the trial.
The ex-prez said the case was "nonsense," and called the judge "totally conflicted."
Trump said he should be on the campaign trail instead of sitting in New York for trial.
Trump went on to call the case a "disgrace to New York."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 01, 2024, 12:18:50 am
FNC is covering this live...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 01, 2024, 12:37:15 am
But Daniels' attorney, Keith Davidson, noted in another text that things "could get a lot worse" for Trump if Daniels went public right before the 2016 election with her claim about having a one-night affair with the married real estate mogul, he testified.
Ah, so Daniels is guilty of extortion. When does her trial begin?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 01, 2024, 02:12:31 am
Ah, so Daniels is guilty of extortion. When does her trial begin?
Is there any evidence to suggest Daniels did any of that, or just her attorney milking the situation...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 01, 2024, 02:44:43 am
Trump was already on the ropes with the release of the 'grab them by the pu$$y' tape. Had the Daniels/Mcdougal relationship been exposed, hellary would be finishing up her second term. Trump cares about noone but himself.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on May 01, 2024, 02:51:25 am
Did he do so just to feel safe (which in itself exposed him to risk)? Or was their a veiled threat?
Just speculating here. None of this is relevant to the trial. Paying Daniels off for whatever reason, whether threatened or not, is not illegal.
Trump knew where the loose ends were and he sent his fixer lawyer to close them up. I'm pretty sure all this was before it was publicly known he was running. Had the women known, they could have gotten far more from the tabloids. That's why Stormy tried to get he NDA nullified, for a far bigger payout. So it is pretty clear what went down, despite all the lies.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 01, 2024, 10:06:51 pm
Witnesses line up to slam Michael Cohen ahead of Trump trial star’s turn
by Ella Lee and Zach Schonfeld - 05/01/24 11:16 AM ET
NEW YORK — In 2011, Stormy Daniels’s manager phoned a lawyer to complain that “some jerk” had called her up threatening to sue over a blog post claiming the porn actor slept with Donald Trump.
“I hate to ask it this way,” Joshua Steinglass, a prosecutor with the Manhattan district attorney’s office, said Tuesday while questioning the lawyer, “but who was that jerk?”
Keith Davidson, on the stand in Trump’s first criminal trial, frequently paused before answering Steinglass’s questions. But not this one.
“Michael Cohen,” Davidson replied without hesitation.
A onetime personal attorney and fixer to Trump, Cohen is expected to be a star witness for the district attorney’s office’s case against the former president on 34 counts of falsifying business records connected to hush money deals. Trump pleaded not guilty.
Cohen’s conduct is at the heart of the case. Prosecutors hope to convince a jury of 12 New Yorkers who will determine Trump’s fate that Cohen, now working against his former boss, is credible.
But the image of Cohen portrayed to jurors, at this point, is hardly one of valor.
Some of the prosecutors’ witnesses have torn into him, casting Cohen as difficult to work with to the point where they actively wanted to avoid him.
At one point, Davidson likened Cohen to the dog in Disney’s “Up” who repeatedly becomes distracted by squirrels.
“He was highly excitable, sort of a pants-on-fire kind of guy. He had a lot of things going on,” Davidson said. “I’d frequently be on the phone with him, he’d take another call, he’d be talking out of two ears.”
Cohen paid the hush money to Daniels that prosecutors say Trump unlawfully concealed and helped set up two other so-called catch-and-kill arrangements to keep quiet negative stories about Trump ahead of the 2016 election.
more https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4635754-witnesses-slam-michael-cohen-trump-trial/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 01:11:42 pm
Trump’s Business Records Trial Resumes with More Witness Testimony
Simon Kent 2 May 2024
Donald Trump returns to a New York City courtroom Thursday as his business records trial resumes. Testimony is expected from a lawyer who represented two women who allege they had sexual encounters with the former president.
AP reports the testimony from attorney Keith Davidson is seen as a base for the prosecution’s case that Trump and his allies sought to bury unflattering stories in the run-up to the 2016 presidential election.
He represented both Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal in their negotiations with the National Enquirer and Trump’s former lawyer and sometime personal fixer, Michael Cohen.
Davidson is one of multiple key players expected to be called to the stand in advance of Cohen, the prosecutor’s star witness.
Trump has denied all allegations and maintained his innocence throughout while claiming “election interference” for the judicial challenge.
more https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2024/05/02/trumps-business-records-trial-resumes-with-more-witness-testimony/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 01:23:33 pm
DAY 10
16 minutes ago Here's what to expect on Day 10 of Trump's 'hush money' criminal trial By Ben Kochman
We're back inside the courtroom for day 10 of Donald Trump's criminal trial on charges of concealing $130,000 in hush money paid to porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election.
First up today is a 9:30 a.m. hearing on whether Trump, 77, breached the court's "gag order" again by disparaging jurors and witnesses in public statements. The judge has already fined him $9,000 for breaching the order, and prosecutors are likely to urge the court to fine Trump again.
Then we'll hear more testimony from Keith Davidson, the lawyer for both Daniels and alleged Trump lover Karen McDougal, a former Playboy Playmate.
Davidson has so far walked jurors through his negotiations with Trump's ex-fixer Michael Cohen about the payoffs in the summer and fall of 2016.
Once prosecutors are done questioning him, he'll be cross-examined by Trump's lawyers.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 01:39:06 pm
Trump lashes out at Judge in NY criminal trial over 'unconstitutional' gag order
Former President Trump lashed out at Judge Juan Merchan ahead of Thursday's proceedings in his Manhattan criminal trial.
Trump once again argued Merchan is a "conflicted" judge and a member of the "radical left." Trump has repeatedly raged against the gag order Merchan imposed on him in early April, which prohibits him from speaking publicly about witnesses in the case.
"WE CANNOT LET THIS RADICAL LEFT, CORRUPT AND HIGHLY CONFLICTED NEW YORK DEMOCRAT JUDGE INTERFERE WITH THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION OF 2024 — THE MOST IMPORTANT ELECTION IN THE HISTORY OF OUR COUNTRY. THE USA IS TRULY A NATION IN DECLINE! REMOVE THE UNCONSTITUTIONAL GAG ORDER," Trump wrote on social media.
Thursday's proceedings are expected to begin with yet another gag order hearing. Merchan fined Trump $9,000 for violating the order earlier this week. The court also warned Trump that further violations could result in jail time. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 02, 2024, 01:43:21 pm
Trump is absolutely correct and what is happening in the court system is alarming. Yes, I believe that this is nothing more than election interference and keeping him from campaigning. The left IS afraid of him.
However, I still fear that if they do incarcerate him, he'll never get out. **nononono*
One thing so far is for sure, Trump is not backing down.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 02:25:34 pm
'If Lightning Doesn’t Strike the Courthouse, I Will Be Very Surprised': Turley on Cohen Testifying Susie Moore 5–6 minutes
We are well into the third week of the Manhattan criminal trial against former President Donald Trump. Readers will recall this is the case brought by District Attorney Alvin Bragg in New York state court alleging that Trump falsified business records reflecting payments made to his former attorney, Michael Cohen.
The heart of the prosecution's claim is that, rather than payments for legal services, those payments were actually reimbursement to Cohen for monies he expended securing a non-disclosure agreement from Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 presidential election. As such, Cohen's testimony will be critical to the prosecution's case against the former president.
One problem with that: Michael Cohen. The disgraced former personal attorney for Trump has convictions for fraud and perjury on his resume — bona fides most attorneys look to avoid like the plague in any witnesses they intend to call to the stand. Given his history, attempting to weigh the credibility of Cohen's testimony under oath will approximate nailing Jell-O to the wall.
more https://redstate.com/smoosieq/2024/05/01/if-lightning-doesnt-strike-the-courthouse-i-will-be-very-surprised-turley-on-cohen-testifying-n2173598
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 02:25:44 pm
7 minutes ago Gag order hearing wraps with no immediate ruling, Keith Davidson back on stand
The gag order hearing wrapped a few minutes ago. Judge Juan Merchan did not issue an immediate ruling.
The lawyer Keith Davidson is now back on the stand for a second day of testimony.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 02:51:25 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 03:26:51 pm
5 minutes ago Stormy Daniels' lawyer testifies it was his 'understanding' that she did have sex with Donald Trump By Ben Kochman
Stormy Daniels' lawyer testified Thursday that it was his "understanding" that the porn star had in fact had sex with Donald Trump when she signed a letter denying the tryst — that was written by the attorney — in January 2018.
“Did you understand at the time that you wrote this letter that Stormy Daniels had in fact had a sexual encounter with Donald Trump at some point?" prosecutor Joshua Steinglass asked Daniels' lawyer Keith Davidson.
“That was my understanding,” Davidson replied.
Trump, who has denied ever having sex with the adult film actress, sat silently at the defense table during Davidson's testimony.
Davidson also claimed that the $130,000 that Daniels received to buy her silence about the alleged one-night-stand "wasn’t a payoff, and it wasn’t hush money."
He prefers to describe the arrangement as a "consideration," he testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 02, 2024, 03:50:34 pm
Davidson also claimed that the $130,000 that Daniels received to buy her silence about the alleged one-night-stand "wasn’t a payoff, and it wasn’t hush money."
He prefers to describe the arrangement as a "consideration," he testified.
Quote of the trial thus far..... :silly:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 04:48:30 pm
Trump gag order: Defense knocks Biden’s WHCD speech and Cohen’s TikTok By Kaelan Deese May 2, 2024 12:20 pm .
Attorneys for Donald Trump said on Thursday the sweeping gag order against their client in the New York hush money trial bars the former president from defending himself.
“Judge, last weekend, last weekend, President Trump’s rival, President Biden, said in a public forum — he talked about this trial, and he talked about a witness that’s going to be in this trial. He mocked President Trump,” Trump attorney Todd Blanche said, referring to President Joe Biden‘s speech at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday.
“Donald has had a few tough days lately. You might call it ‘stormy weather,'” Biden said during his speech.
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2988375/trump-gag-order-defense-knocks-bidens-whcd-speech-cohens-tiktok/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 04:48:54 pm
5 minutes ago Lawyer: Michael Cohen whined about not getting a role in Trump White House: 'I’ve saved that guy’s ass so many times' By Ben Kochman
Michael Cohen whined over the phone that Donald Trump still owed him $130,000 for paying porn star Stormy Daniels — and griped that he was stiffed on a spot in Trump’s White House, Daniels’ lawyer testified.
“Jesus Christ, can you believe I’m not going to Washington?” attorney Keith Davidson recalled Cohen saying during the Dec. 9, 2016, call.
Davidson also told jurors that Cohen ranted about not yet being paid back for the payoff to Daniels.
“I’ve saved that guy’s ass so many times, you don’t even know,” Cohen added, according to Davidson.
“That f--king guy’s not even paid me the $130,000 back,” Cohen said, referring to the Daniels payoff, Davidson said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 04:50:24 pm
Why prosecutors in Trump’s hush money trial are telling the jury about all of their star witness’s flaws By Ross O'Keefe May 2, 2024 11:28 am .
Michael Cohen, former President Donald Trump’s ex-lawyer and a key witness in his hush money trial, has quite a few detractors in the New York courtroom.
Prosecutors have been contributing to skepticism about their star witness by highlighting personality flaws and his alleged wrongdoing. Those prosecutors, jurors, and even the judge in the case have criticized Cohen’s actions. It may not make sense that prosecutors are using him as a critical cog in a machine that aims to convict Trump on 34 felony counts and could be undermining the former attorney’s credibility at the same time.
But it’s intentional.
Prosecutors are hoping the jury dislikes Cohen enough to reflect those feelings as a “boomerang” effect against Trump, who once called him a “very talented lawyer.” They are trying to put Cohen in a frame on their own terms — before the former president’s team can do so and discredit the prosecution’s calling of him as a witness.
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/campaigns/presidential/2988180/prosecutors-hush-money-trial-telling-jury-star-witnesss-flaws/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 06:25:28 pm
Lawyer for Stormy Daniels denies that payment from Cohen was 'hush money'
Keith Davidson, lawyer for adult film actress Stormy Daniels, said in court Thursday that the $130,000 payment to Daniels was not “hush money,” but a “consideration” payment.
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Johsua Steinglass pressed Davidson on the witness stand about Daniels’ statement in January 2018, which Davidson prepared for his client, that denied any relationship with Trump and said that her only interaction with Trump was “a few public appearances and nothing more.”
“Rumors that I have received hush money from Donald Trump are completely false,” the statement says.“I don’t believe that Stormy ever alleged that any interaction with Trump was ‘romantic,‘” Davidson testified Thursday. But it is his understanding that Daniels had a sexual encounter with Trump.
He also said the payment “wasn’t a payoff.”“It wasn’t a payoff. And it wasn’t hush money. It was consideration,” Davidson said. Davidson added that he would never use “hush money” to describe the money exchange.
He would only refer to it as “consideration.” “Consideration” is a contractual legal term for what someone gives in return for the promise to abide by a contract; in this case, money. The payment was labeled "legal fees" in Trump's accounting, which prosecutors allege amounted to fraud.
Steinglass asked about the truthfulness of the Daniels’ statement. Davidson replied, “I think it’s technically true.”
He continues that he doesn’t believe anyone alleged of a relationship between Daniels and Trump -- it was an interaction.Davidson said he believes a “relationship” to be an ongoing occurrence.
Fox News' Grace Taggart and Kerri Kupec Urbahn contributed to this update Posted by Brianna Herlihy
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 06:26:11 pm
an hour ago I thought Michael Cohen 'was going to kill himself' a month after 2016 election: Stormy Daniels' attorney By Ben Kochman
Stormy Daniels' lawyer Keith Davidson said later that Michael Cohen had talked with him from time to time about potentially being President Donald Trump’s chief of staff or his attorney general.
Cohen was “depressed” and “despondent” on the December 2016 call, Davidson testified.
“I thought he was going to kill himself,” Davidson recalled when asked again about the call during cross-examination by Trump lawyer Emil Bove.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 07:10:10 pm
Trump slams 'fake news' reports of him sleeping in court: 'I simply close my beautiful blue eyes, sometimes' By Kaydi Pelletier
Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform around 2 p.m. today to rail against "fake news" reports that he's fallen asleep in court, saying he's "simply" closed his "beautiful blue eyes."
"Contrary to the FAKE NEWS MEDIA, I don’t fall asleep during the Crooked D.A.’s Witch Hunt, especially not today. I simply close my beautiful blue eyes, sometimes, listen intensely, and take it ALL in!!!" he wrote.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 08:02:55 pm
12 minutes ago Stormy's lawyer off stand; DA forensic analyst called as next witness
Keith Davidson, the ex-lawyer for Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, has finished his testimony.
The next witness is Douglas Daus, a forensic analyst at the Manhattan DA's office.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 11:07:48 pm
an hour ago Here's what happened on Day 10 of Trump's 'hush money' criminal trial
Day 10 of Trump's "hush money" criminal trial is in the books. Here's what happened.
— Stormy Daniels' lawyer Keith Davidson testified that Michael Cohen whined in a post 2016 election phone call that Donald Trump still owed him a $130,000 reimbursement for paying the porn star Daniels to keep quiet about a sexual encounter, and griped that he was stiffed on a spot in Trump’s White House.
— Trump's lawyers unearthed Davidson’s unsavory past dealings during a tense cross-examination, pointing out that he represented clients who were paid hush money by actor Charlie Sheen, and asking him whether he got another client paid for leaking Lindsay Lohan’s medical files to TMZ.
— Davidson cheekily testified that the $130,000 that Daniels received from Cohen to buy her silence about the alleged one-night stand “wasn’t a payoff, and it wasn’t hush money.” The lawyer cheekily testified that he prefers to describe the arrangement as a “consideration in a civil settlement.”
— Trump was warned about speaking about jurors at the trial in a morning hearing on whether he had violated the court's limited "gag order" that's meant to stop him from bashing jurors and witnesses. Prosecutors asked to fine him $4,000 on top of $9,000 he's already been fined.
— Jurors heard a potentially damning piece of evidence right at the buzzer Thursday afternoon: Cohen telling Trump on a recording “I need to open up a company” regarding a “transfer” involving “our friend David." Prosecutors did not explain the recording, but it could be a reference to David Pecker, the publisher of the National Enquirer, which arranged a $150,000 payoff that silenced another of Trump's alleged lovers, the Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal.
The trial will start up again Friday morning with Douglas Daus, a forensic analyst at the Manhattan DA’s office, still on the stand.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 02, 2024, 11:08:32 pm
3 hours ago Michael Cohen secretly recorded telling Trump about company he wanted to open for 'info regarding our friend David' By Ben Kochman
Jurors just heard Donald Trump's voice on a conversation secretly recorded by Michael Cohen in which Cohen tells Trump, "I need to open up a company for a transfer of all that info regarding our friend 'David.'"
“I’ve spoken to Allen Weisselberg about how to set the whole thing up,” Cohen adds to Trump on the recording, referring to the long-time chief financial officer of the Trump Organization.
“Let me know what’s happening, OK?” Trump can be heard saying.
Prosecutors did not immediately explain the relevance of the recording, or who "David" refers to.
But the publisher of the National Enquirer, which orchestrated a separate payoff to Trump's other alleged lover Karen McDougal, is David Pecker.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 03, 2024, 02:25:32 am
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 03, 2024, 02:51:23 am
Jonathan Turley @JonathanTurley
It appears that Cohen was not simply unethical but delusional. Davidson testified that Cohen was irate that he was not going to made Attorney General. Even when he was representing Trump, some of us questioned his status as an attorney, let alone as a future Attorney General.
1:46 PM · May 2, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on May 03, 2024, 03:25:59 am
Expert can't fully say why Trump-Cohen recording cuts off
Kelsey Walsh and Mike Pappano | May 02, 4:33 PM
In his cross-examination of expert witness Douglas Daus, defense attorney Emil Bove asked Daus why the 2016 Trump-Cohen recording on Cohen's phone abruptly cuts off, attempting to raise doubts about the integrity of the recording.
Daus suggested that he heard in the recording that another call was coming in, but Daus said he could not say with certainty why the recording ended.
"You don't have firsthand knowledge of why it cuts off?" Bove said.
Bove -- a former prosecutor with plenty of experience handling cellphone extractions -- then discussed with Daus the different ways to extract a device. For a brief moment, the tone of the cross-examination shifted from tense to friendly. . . .
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 01:12:01 pm
DAY 11
Former President Trump's criminal trial is scheduled to resume at 9:30 a.m. Friday morning with the prosecution's seventh witness, Doug Daus, to take the stand.
Daus is a computer forensic analyst with the district attorney's office. Yesterday, he testified about examining two cell phones that belonged to Trump’s former attorney, Michael Cohen.
During Daus' testimony, an audio recording was played former Trump attorney Michael Cohen could be heard telling Trump that he (Cohen) has to open up a company to transfer funds to “our friend David.” Cross-examination began towards the end of the day, and the defense was asking about the chain of custody of the phone.
Before Daus, Keith Davidson, an attorney who once represented both Karen McDougal and Stormy Daniels, completed his testimony. He testified about various interactions with Cohen before and after the 2016 election.
Davidson said Daniels’ denial of an affair with Trump was technically true because he wouldn’t characterize the interaction between Trump and Stormy as romantic. He also said the money Cohen paid Stormy was not a payoff, but rather a “consideration.” The defense played audio recordings of Davidson where he can be heard admitting Cohen didn’t need authority from Trump to make the payment to Stormy.
Court will end early today at 3:45 p.m. to accommodate a juror's appointment.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this update. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 02:11:04 pm
Judge Juan Merchan took the bench and greeted former President Trump and his legal team on Friday morning as day 11 of Trump's criminal trial began.
Before witness testimony resumed, Merchan said he wanted to clarify any misunderstanding of his gag order on Trump, who moments ago complained that his constitutional rights were under attack because he is not permitted to respond to witnesses who are testifying against him.
"You have an absolute right to testify at trial," Merchan told Trump. "That is a constitutional right that cannot be infringe upon."
"The order restricting extrajudicial statements does not prohibit you from testifying in any way," the judge continued. He clarified the gag order does not apply to statements made on the witness stand and instructed Trump to inform his attorneys if he has any questions."
Earlier, Trump said his lawyers will appeal the gag order today. The former president was fined $9,000 this week for violating the order on nine separate occasions.
Fox News' Maria Paronich contributed to this update. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 02:12:14 pm
19 minutes ago Forensic analyst returns to witness stand By Kyle Schnitzer
Jurors were brought into the courtroom as Douglas Daus, a forensic analyst at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, returns to the witness stand to continue cross-examination by Donald Trump attorney Emil Bove.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 03:31:41 pm
Quote
IT witness done testifying; judge having side bar with attorneys By Kyle Schnitzer
Digital evidence analyst Douglas Daus wrapped up his testimony. The judge is having a brief sidebar with attorneys from both parties.
Quote
an hour ago New witness called in Trump hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
Georgia Longstreet, a paralegal for the Manhattan DA’s Office, is now testifying.
Longstreet was assigned to Donald Trump's case for a year and a half, she testified.
Her duties included saving social media and news articles relating to the case, such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Truth Social.
Quote
Trump's former spokeswoman Hope Hicks expected to take stand as soon as today By Kyle Schnitzer and Ben Kochman
Hope Hicks, Donald Trump's ex-press secretary and his former top White House spokeswoman, is expected to take the stand as soon as today, the Washington Post reported.
Hicks served as Trump’s 2016 campaign press secretary and went on to hold several roles in the White House.
Her name has popped up a few times during Trump’s hush money trial, with ex-National Enquirer publisher David Pecker testifying that she was "in and out" of a key August 2015 meeting at Trump Tower.
Pecker testified that during the meeting, he told Trump and Michael Cohen he would be the campaign’s “eyes and ears” about any negative stories that could hurt Trump.
Hicks no longer works for Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 03:33:17 pm
6 minutes ago Jurors shown tweets by Trump, including video statement after 'Access Hollywood' interview By Kyle Schnitzer
Prosecutors showed jurors Donald Trump's tweets after the "Access Hollywood" tape was released — including a taped statement where Trump apologized for using words that "don't reflect who I am."
"Anyone who knows me knows these words don’t reflect who I am. I said it. I was wrong and I apologize," Trump says in the statement on Oct. 8, 2016.
The evidence was introduced after Georgia Longstreet, a paralegal for the Manhattan DA’s Office, testified on direct examination about her role at the office.
She testified that her duties was to save social media and news articles.
Longstreet was assigned to Donald Trump’s case for a year and a half, she testified.
Two Truth Social posts were shown to jurors.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 03:34:51 pm
a minute ago Hope Hicks, Trump don't exchange looks as she begins testifying
Hope Hicks entered the courtroom wearing a black blazer. and a blue button down shirt. As she walked by the defense table, Trump turned his head slightly but the pair did not make eye contact.
Attorney Todd Blanche smiled at her as she entered through the witness door.
"My name is Hope Charlotte Hicks," Hicks says as she's sworn in.
Quote
9 minutes ago Trump's Hope Hicks called to the witness stand By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks has been called to to the witness stand.
Hicks served as Trump’s 2016 campaign press secretary and went on to hold down several roles in the White House.
Her name has popped up a few times during Trump’s hush money trial while ex-National Enquirer publisher testified that she briefly attended an August 2015 meeting at Trump Tower.
Pecker said she would be the campaign’s “eyes and ears” about any negative stories that could hurt Trump, adding that Hicks was “in and out” of the meeting.
She no longer works for Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 03, 2024, 03:46:30 pm
19 minutes ago Forensic analyst returns to witness stand By Kyle Schnitzer
Jurors were brought into the courtroom as Douglas Daus, a forensic analyst at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, returns to the witness stand to continue cross-examination by Donald Trump attorney Emil Bove.
Any news on the crime Daus is testifying about?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 03:53:02 pm
Quote
14 minutes ago 'Really nervous' Hope Hicks says she hasn't spoken to Trump since 2022 By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks testified that she hasn't spoken to Donald Trump since 2022.
Asked by prosecutors when she last had communication with the former president, Hicks said it was in the summer or fall of 2022.
Hicks is now testifying about her start at the Trump Organization, where she started as director of communications around October 2014.
When asked if she was nervous being here, Hicks, who was served a subpoena by the Manhattan DA's office, said, "I'm really nervous."
Quote
10 minutes ago Hicks: Trump is a 'very good multitasker' By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks testified that Donald Trump is a "very good multitasker" who ran the Trump Organization like a "family business."
“He’s a very good multitasker. He’s a very hard worker," Hicks said on the stand, adding that he could wear many hats at once.
She said that everyone who works at the Trump Organization reports to Trump.
"It’s a very big and successful company, but it’s run like a family business in certain ways," she testified, adding that Trump's children — Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump and Ivanka Trump — were others who workers reported to.
Quote
4 minutes ago Hicks thought Trump was 'joking' when he offered her press secretary gig By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks testified Friday that she thought Donald Trump was "joking" when he told her she was going to be his campaign's press secretary in June 2015.
"I think Mr. Trump was joking but he said I was going to the campaign press sectary," Hicks told Manhattan prosecutors.
She added that she had "no experience" and didn't take Trump's offer "very seriously" until she eventually claimed the role.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 04:02:27 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago 'Following his lead': Hicks testifies about Trump's 'very involved' approach to media By Kyle Schnitzer
Hicks testified that Donald Trump was "very involved" in his 2016 campaign, and she would just be "following his lead" when it came to media responses.
Asked by Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Michael Colangelo how involved Trump was in the campaign's messaging strategy, Hicks said staffers just did what he wanted done.
“I would say that Mr. Trump was responsible. He knew what he wanted to say and how to say it," Hicks said.
"We were all just following his lead. I think he deserves the credit for the different messages the campaign focused on in terms of the agenda he put forth.”
Quote
a minute ago Hicks says Trump congratulated Pecker on National Enquirer's Ben Carson story: 'Pulitzer worthy'
When former National Enquirer published David Pecker published a story about Donald Trump's then-political foe Ben Carson, Hope Hicks testified that Trump congratulated him on "great reporting" that could be "Pulitzer worthy."
She recalled overhearing a phone conversation between Pecker and Trump, when she said that "“Mr. Trump was congratulating him on the great reporting.”
Hicks testifiied that Trump would call Pecker to congratulate him on his articles — including telling Pecker that some of his stories were "Pulitzer worthy."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 04:11:33 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago 'Very concerned': Hope Hicks now testifying about Trump's 'Access Hollywood' tape By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks is testifying about how she first became aware of Trump's "Access Hollywood" tape when she received an email from a Washington Post reporter seeking comment on Oct. 7, 2016.
Hicks testified that she was "very concerned" after receiving the email, which she said described Trump having an "inappropriate conversation about a woman."
"I was concerned. Very concerned. Yeah, I was concerned about the contents of the email," Hicks said, later adding, "There was a lot at play."
Hicks was in her office on the 14th floor at Trump Tower at the time of the email.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 03, 2024, 04:24:19 pm
What charge against Trump is Hicks testifying about?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 04:31:59 pm
5 minutes ago Trump thought 'Access Hollywood' tape was 'pretty standard stuff' guys talked about: Hicks By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks testified that Donald Trump thought his comments with Billy Bush in the "Access Hollywood" tape were "pretty standard stuff for two guys chatting with each other."
“I know Mr. Trump felt this wasn’t good," Hicks said, recalling the moment Trump learned about the tape.
She said Trump called it "just two guys talking privately, locker room talk."
"It wasn’t something to get so upset over. He certainly didn’t," Hicks told prosecutors.
She later added, “He felt this was pretty standard stuff for two guys chatting with each other.”
Hicks recalled how she was a "little stunned" about the video that she knew was concerning and would "dominate the news cycle" the next several days.
"Obviously it wasn’t helpful, but there were a lot of layers to it that complicated where we were trying to go with the campaign," Hicks testified about the video, saying it was a "damaging development."
"This was pulling us backwards.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 03, 2024, 04:44:13 pm
Anticipating Trumpers to go scorched earth on Hope Hicks.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 03, 2024, 04:50:11 pm
Anticipating Trumpers to go scorched earth on Hope Hicks.
In trump's defense, we are 11 days in, and I can't discern one law that has been broken. There needs to be some scorched earth, cut them off at the knees with Bragg and James on this one.
I am hardly a Trump defender, but this bullshit should get some prosecutor doing some jail time themselves.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: 240B on May 03, 2024, 04:53:09 pm
Wait! What?
What is this trial about again? I am losing focus! Is it about falsified business records? Is it about "smack talk about some skanks?" What is the charge! What is the crime?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 03, 2024, 04:54:15 pm
I agree @catfish1957 NO law has been broken. With that being said He brought this all on himself and continues to lie about it. Which brings the question as to how stupid does he think we are?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 04:57:32 pm
15 minutes ago Trump only let one other person post to his Twitter, Hicks says By Kyle Schnitzer
Just Donald Trump and one other staffer — former White House deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino — were authorized to post on Trump’s Twitter, Hope Hicks testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 05:13:58 pm
5 minutes ago Hicks sent draft responses to Cohen after Playboy model's deal came to light By Kyle Schnitzer
Jurors were shown four draft responses Hope Hicks sent Donald Trump's "fixer" lawyer Michael Cohen to review as a story about the Karen McDougal deal was about to be published.
But Cohen had his own ideas.
“Instead … say: These accusations are completely untrue and just the latest despicable attempt by the liberal media and the Clinton machine to distract the public from the FBI’s ongoing criminal investigation into Secretary Clinton and her closest associates.”
Hicks read the email sent to her by Cohen on Nov. 4, 2016.
Court is now on a lunch break.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: rustynail on May 03, 2024, 05:16:33 pm
There is so much evidence there must be a crime?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 03, 2024, 05:19:06 pm
I agree @catfish1957 NO law has been broken. With that being said He brought this all on himself and continues to lie about it. Which brings the question as to how stupid does he think we are?
What's more disturbing is those who believe those blatant lies. But those lies have nothing to do with any actual crime committed. The actual massive crime here is what the legal system is doing to itself to burn some one's house down at any cost.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DCPatriot on May 03, 2024, 05:52:22 pm
What's more disturbing is those who believe those blatant lies. But those lies have nothing to do with any actual crime committed. The actual massive crime here is what the legal system is doing to itself to burn some one's house down at any cost.
Well, I can still 'hear' somebody in here cackling "Just try! I'll get you, my pretty, and your little dog, too!"
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 06:37:59 pm
Quote
13 minutes ago 'This isn't a trial, it's a political campaign,' Trump rails on Truth Social By Kaydi Pelletier
Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform during the court lunch break with an all-caps rant against the trial:
He followed it up with a post claiming that "the tape played yesterday" — of a phone call Michael Cohen secretly recorded between the two of them — is "good" for his case but wasn't played in full.
"The tape played yesterday and discussed today, while good for my case, was cut off at the end, in the early stages of something very positive that I was in the midst of saying. Why was it cut off???"
Quote
18 minutes ago Hope Hicks resumes testifying in Trump hush money case By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks resumes testifying Friday afternoon about a request from Trump about providing a denial about Stormy Daniels to the Wall Street Journal.
Quote
22 minutes ago Trump returns to court after lunch
Donald Trump just entered the courtroom after the court's lunch break. Hope Hicks will resume testifying once the judge returns to the bench.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 06:50:27 pm
Quote
6 minutes ago Trump 'concerned' about Melania, didn't want newspapers delivered to home after WSJ : Hope Hicks
Donald Trump was "concerned" about how a Wall Street Journal's story about Playboy model Karen McDougal and porn star Stormy Daniels would be perceived by his wife, Melania, Hope Hicks testified Friday — adding that Trump wanted to "make sure" that the newspapers weren't delivered to his home the morning the story was published.
"He was concerned about the story. He was concerned how it would be viewed by his wife," Hicks said, referring to Melania.
"And he wanted to make sure the newspapers weren't delivered to his residence that morning."
Quote
11 minutes ago Hicks now reading through text message exchange with Michael Cohen after 2016 WSJ story By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks is reading through text messages she had with Michael Cohen on Nov. 4, 2016 — the day the Wall Street Journal published a story about Karen McDougal and Stormy Daniels.
The exchange shows Hicks' and Cohen's communications on the day the story dropped, including one text by Cohen critiquing the story with a funny typo.
“Poorly written and I dot seeing it get much play,” Cohen said in one text sent to Hicks, with "dot" meaning "don't."
Hicks testified that "there’s just a little irony there" after reading the text aloud in court.
Other texts from Cohen included: “Call me," "Any news," and “Any news???”
Hicks said the Wall Street Journal story didn't get "any traction" despite initial fears.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 07:00:59 pm
2 minutes ago Trump attorney begin grilling Hope Hicks
Trump attorney Emil Bove has started on redirect examination with Hope Hicks still on the stand.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 03, 2024, 07:04:03 pm
6 minutes ago Trump 'concerned' about Melania, didn't want newspapers delivered to home after WSJ : Hope Hicks
Donald Trump was "concerned" about how a Wall Street Journal's story about Playboy model Karen McDougal and porn star Stormy Daniels would be perceived by his wife, Melania, Hope Hicks testified Friday — adding that Trump wanted to "make sure" that the newspapers weren't delivered to his home the morning the story was published.
"He was concerned about the story. He was concerned how it would be viewed by his wife," Hicks said, referring to Melania.
"And he wanted to make sure the newspapers weren't delivered to his residence that morning."
And the criminal charge here?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 03, 2024, 07:13:24 pm
What crime is Trump defending himself against?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 07:23:32 pm
Quote
10 minutes ago Hope Hicks resumes testifying after breaking down in tears By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks resumed testifying Friday afternoon after breaking down in tears at the beginning of cross-examination by Donald Trump attorney Emil Bove.
Quote
6 minutes ago Hicks: Cohen is a fixer 'only because he first broke it' By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks testified that Michael Cohen's reputation as a "fixer" is because he's usually cleaning up his own mess.
“He liked to call himself a fixer, or Mr. Fix It," Hicks said. "It’s only because he first broke it so he could fix it.”
Her response, under cross-examination by Donald Trump's attorneys, drew a few chuckles inside the courtroom.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 03, 2024, 07:38:17 pm
Isn't Trump's fixer a direct reflection of Trump?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: WhatWouldReaganDo on May 03, 2024, 07:42:56 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 07:47:54 pm
Quote
18 minutes ago Why Trump was worried about WSJ paper reaching Melania: Hicks By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks testified that Donald Trump "really values" wife Melania's opinion and that what she thinks can be "really meaningful" to him — which is why he didn't want the Wall Street Journal to get delivered to his home.
“He really values – President Trump really values Mrs. Trump’s opinion. She doesn’t weigh in all the time, but when she does, it’s really meaningful," Hicks said, responding to a question by Trump attorney Emil Bove, who asked her about the couple's relationship.
"He really respects what she has to say. I think his concern was what her perception would be. I knew that was weighing on him.”
Hicks then added that Trump didn't want anyone from his family to "be hurt" by stories that were "going on in his campaign."
Quote
17 minutes ago Hope Hicks finishes testifying in Trump's hush money trial By Kyle Schnitzer
Hope Hicks wrapped up her testimony Friday afternoon. As she exited the courtroom, it didn't appear that she made eye contact with Donald Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on May 03, 2024, 07:52:37 pm
What's more disturbing is those who believe those blatant lies. But those lies have nothing to do with any actual crime committed. The actual massive crime here is what the legal system is doing to itself to burn some one's house down at any cost.
Agree
It seems James and Bragg are trying to keep a campaign promise to bankrupt Trump. Nifong did something similar several years ago in the Duke Lacrosse team rape case when he made a campaign promise of a conviction to the black community
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 03, 2024, 08:14:19 pm
12 minutes ago Hope Hicks testimony 'very interesting' — and it's 'a shame' what 'vicious radical left lunatics have done to this country,' Trump says leaving court By Kaydi Pelletier
Leaving court just now, Trump railed against Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg and the Department of Justice:
"They've been after us for years — Democrats, the radical left — they've destroyed people's lives.
"It's a shame what they've done to this country. ... These are vicious, vicious radical left lunatics. ... In the meantime the country's going to hell."
He cited the border crisis, inflation, Afghanistan, and Russia's war in Ukraine, saying it "never would have happened," seemingly meaning if he was in office.
"I was very interested in what happened today," Trump said of watching one of his closest White House aides, Hope Hicks, testify.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: berdie on May 03, 2024, 08:54:07 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 04, 2024, 12:30:24 am
Paul Ingrassia @PaulIngrassia
They keep rehashing the Access Hollywood Tape and have been questioning Hicks about it over and over again.
Bragg and the Prosecution have absolutely no case other than to sensationalize ancient stories and “throw everything at the wall to see what sticks” to muddy the waters.
12:16 PM · May 3, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 04, 2024, 12:36:53 am
Mike Davis @mrddmia
President Trump has an outstanding legal team.
It is a perfect mix of long-time loyalists, seasoned trial attorneys, and serious Supreme Court advocates.
We should particularly commend Emil Bove and Todd Blanche’s trial performance in New York City.
10:48 AM · May 3, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 04, 2024, 01:03:53 am
The insanity at the heart of the Trump trial Washington Examiner, May 3, 2024, Byron York
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 04, 2024, 01:56:12 am
Good answer, Hope :beer:
Jack Poso @JackPosobiec
Prosecutor: Did Paul Ryan say he was sickened with Trump after the Access Hollywood tape?
Hope Hicks: Sounds like something he would say
3:37 PM · May 3, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 04, 2024, 03:09:54 am
Most voting Americans was sickened by that 'grab em by the Gentelia' tape and had the Daniels/McDougal tryst been leaked before the election he would have been toast. TPTB would have pulled a John Dean/Richard Nixon on his azz so fast your movement would have been dead in its tracks, sacrificed at the alter of Orange.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 04, 2024, 02:08:25 pm
Quote
NY vs. Trump: Bragg's own witness, Hope Hicks, implodes case against Trump Fox News, May 4, 2024, Gregg Jarrett
In an epic miscalculation that backfired spectacularly, prosecutors in the Manhattan hush money trial of Donald Trump called Hope Hicks to the witness stand. The moment cross-examination began, their misbegotten case against the former president began to collapse.
Hicks, who served as press secretary during the 2016 presidential campaign, explained that Trump’s motive for suppressing salacious stories was to protect his wife, Melania. "Absolutely…I don’t think he wanted anyone in his family to be hurt or embarrassed about anything on the campaign. He wanted them to be proud of him."
The account by Hicks demolishes District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s primary claim against Trump that he paid porn star Stormy Daniels for her silence with the intent to benefit his campaign and, thereby, influence the election by "unlawful means." To the contrary, it nicely corroborates the findings of a federal investigation that no crimes were committed, or campaign finance laws broken because there was another purpose for the non-disclosure agreement that Daniels signed.
Like the prosecution witnesses before her, Hicks disparaged Bragg’s planned star witness, Michael Cohen, Trump’s one-time personal lawyer. "He used to like to call himself Mr. Fix-It, but it was only because he first broke it." Ouch! But that denigrating remark is tame compared to the other derisive comments that have been leveled thus far at the insufferable Cohen.
[...]
Hicks confirmed that Trump was aware that Cohen paid off Daniels to end what can fairly be described as aggressive blackmail demands. When the election drew near, Daniels ratcheted up her greedy scheme to profit from Trump by threatening to go public about a supposed affair, which he denied. Not incidentally, she renounced the purported tryst. Then, in a head-spinning maneuver, she recanted her repudiation.
[...]
The payments made were not illegal. Non-disclosure contracts in exchange for silence are not unlawful. Killing negative stories violates no statutes. More to the point, it is not a crime for Trump to know about a non-crime. That would be a senseless syllogism.
So, where exactly is the crime? To quote a memorable line from "Shakespeare In Love," "I don’t know…it’s a mystery!"
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 01:44:03 pm
DAY 12
Trump returns to Manhattan courtroom as prosecutors build toward Michael Cohen testimony
Former President Trump returns to his Manhattan courtroom Monday as prosecutors continue to call witnesses, ultimately building toward testimony from former lawyer Michael Cohen. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg claims Trump reimbursed Cohen for hush money payments to pornography actress Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 01:45:13 pm
Stormy Daniels, Michael Cohen testimony nears as prosecutors approach end of witness list
The New York v. Trump trial could hear testimony from pornography actress Stormy Daniels as soon as this week, with Manhattan prosecutors quickly moving through their list of witnesses.
Prosecutors with Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg's office are ultimately building toward testimony from former lawyer Michael Cohen, who worked for former President Trump ahead of the 2016 election.
They argue Trump reimbursed Cohen for hush money payments made to Daniels just weeks before election day in 2016, and they seek to establish that those payments falsified in Trump's business records.
Los Angeles attorney Keith Davidson, who represented Daniels in 2016, testified last week. He said he represented Daniels in hush money discussions with Cohen near the close of the 2016 presidential campaign.
Daniels and Cohen remain the star witnesses for the prosecution, and their testimony will likely take place at the very end of Bragg's witness list. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 01:46:04 pm
1 min(s) ago Judge Merchan threatens jail time for Trump instead of fines for further contempt of court charges
Judge Juan Merchan says the $1,000 fines imposed on former President Trump "are not working" to prohibit him from violating the gag order against him, and he may resort to imposing jail time.
Merchan made the announcement at the start of proceedings in the New York v. Trump trial on Monday. Merchan found Trump in contempt of court for violating the gag order for a 10th time.
"The last thing I want to consider is jail," Merchan said. "You are former president and possibly the next president. The magnitude if that decision is not lost on me.”
“Your continued willful violation of the court’s order…constitutes a direct attack on the court and will not be allowed to continue," Merchan added.
Merchan also ordered that that all Trump's posts violating the gag order must be removed by 2:15 pm on Monday.
"Defendant is hereby put on notice that if appropriate and warranted, future violations of its lawful orders will be punishable by incarceration," Merchan's Monday order reads.
Merchan's gag order prohibits Trump from speaking publicly about witnesses in the case, such as former lawyer Michael Cohen and pornography actress Stormy Daniels. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: rustynail on May 06, 2024, 02:35:53 pm
Judge Big Juan dares Trump to cross this line.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkzWyOaS8kU
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 02:58:10 pm
an hour ago Here's what Trump said that got him this latest fine By Ben Kochman
"You know [the judge is] rushing the trial like crazy. Nobody's ever seen a thing go like this. That jury was picked so fast — 95% Democrat," Donald Trump said in an April 22 interview with the Real America's Voice cable channel.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 02:58:38 pm
Jeff McConney, former longtime controller at Trump Organization, testifying now By Kyle Schnitzer
Jeff McConney, the former longtime controller of the Trump Organization, was sworn in and has taken the stand as the next witness in Donald Trump’s hush money trial.
McConney worked directly under the Trump Organization’s former chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg, who was sentenced to five months in jail in April after admitting to lying during Trump’s civil fraud trial.
McConney previously testified in two trials tied to Trump including the civil fraud trial, where he was a co-defendant.
The real estate mogul was ordered to pay a total of $450 million for inflating the value of Trump’s property assets. A judge ruled that McConney was banned from serving in any financial management role at any New York company.
A judge also ruled that he was banned from holding an officer role at any New York company for three years.
He testified that the Trump Organization is paying for his lawyer today.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 06, 2024, 03:09:54 pm
Yes, he's just waiting to throw him in the slammer. Trump needs to think things through--what does he think they're going to do with him or to him once they have him out of the public eye???
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 03:15:01 pm
Breaking News4 min(s) ago Ex-top Biden DOJ official now prosecuting Trump was once paid by DNC for 'political consulting'
EXCLUSIVE: The Democratic National Committee paid Trump prosecutor Matthew Colangelo thousands of dollars for "political consulting" in 2018, Fox News Digital has learned.
Colangelo delivered opening statements in the unprecedented criminal trial of former President Trump and serves as a top prosecutor with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's Office on the case.
Colangelo joined Bragg’s office in December 2022 after the resignations of Mark Pomerantz and Carey Dunne — prosecutors who were investigating Trump and resigned in protest of Bragg’s initial unwillingness to indict the former president. Colangelo left a senior role at the Biden Justice Department to join Bragg's team. Bragg afterward brought charges against the former president in April 2023, raising questions among some in the GOP about alleged politicization of the case.
Posted by Brooke Singman Fox News
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 03:16:20 pm
11 minutes ago Trump once pretended to fire me: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Former Trump Organization controller Jeff McConney testified Monday morning that Donald Trump once told him he was fired — only he wasn’t.
Describing the moment that sounds like it could've come straight from "The Apprentice," McConney said that once when he walked into Trump’s office, Trump, who was on the phone, jokingly told him that he was fired because his cash balances went down the week before.
“Jeff, you’re fired,” McConney testified, adding that Trump, when he got off the phone, told him: “You’re not fired but my cash balances went down from last week.”
Trump then told McConney to “negotiated my bills,” according to the witnesses.
McConney said it was a “teaching moment” for him.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on May 06, 2024, 03:58:26 pm
I hope it taught him that he had no sense of humor.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 04:11:14 pm
Quote
2 hours ago Jeff McConney, former longtime controller at Trump Organization, testifying now By Kyle Schnitzer
Jeff McConney, the former longtime controller of the Trump Organization, was sworn in and has taken the stand as the next witness in Donald Trump’s hush money trial.
McConney worked directly under the Trump Organization’s former chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg, who was sentenced to five months in jail in April after admitting to lying during Trump’s civil fraud trial.
McConney previously testified in two trials tied to Trump including the civil fraud trial, where he was a co-defendant.
The real estate mogul was ordered to pay a total of $450 million for inflating the value of Trump’s property assets. A judge ruled that McConney was banned from serving in any financial management role at any New York company.
A judge also ruled that he was banned from holding an officer role at any New York company for three years.
He testified that the Trump Organization is paying for his lawyer today.
Quote
an hour ago Jurors being shown Michael Cohen's invoices from 2017 By Kyle Schnitzer
Jurors are being shown monthly invoices sent by Michael Cohen in 2017 after the alleged hush money payment to Stormy Daniels.
Jeff McConney, the former controller at the Trump Organization, testified under direct examination that the Trump Organization agreed to repay Cohen $420,000 in exchange for his out-of-pocket $130,000 payment made to Daniels.
Earlier, McConney discussed how he and CFO Allen Weisselberg discussed what was owed to Cohen, which included a $50,000 tab to Red Finch tech services, which brought the amount to $180,000.
But that number was doubled to $360,000 to offset taxes, according to McConney, who said Cohen also received a $60,000 bonus in 2017.
Cohen's invoices, sent to Weisselberg, came via email, evidence shows.
Cohen was sent monthly installments of $35,000 by the Trump Organization for phony legal expenses for 12 months, McConney's testimony shows.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 04:23:47 pm
a minute ago Ex-Trump Organization controller now on cross-examination
Trump attorney Emil Bove is currently grilled Jeff McConney, the former controller for the Trump Organization.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 05:39:13 pm
Quote
an hour ago Cohen used personal Gmail email account for invoices: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen sent invoices from his personal email account — despite his signature block claiming to be the "Personal attorney to President Donald J. Trump," testimony shows.
Jeff McConney was shown emails by Trump attorney Emil Bove that were sent by Cohen in 2017, and Bove highlighted the signature.
"It doesn't say fixer, does it?" Bove asked, to which McConney replied, "No."
McConney confirmed that Cohen operated with his personal Gmail account, and later said he didn't know whether Cohen was doing any legal work for Trump in 2017.
Quote
McConney testifies that he was not personally asked to carry out payments by Trump
Former Trump Organization controller Jeffrey McConney testified that former President Donald Trump did not personally task him with carrying out alleged hush money payments in 2017.
Asked by Trump attorney Emil Bove if Trump had asked McConney to carry out any of the tasks he earlier detailed to the prosecution, the former controller testified that Trump "did not."
McConney also testified that he did not speak to Trump frequently, and that any talks he did have with the former president would not have been about accounting software. Posted by Michael Lee
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 06:18:03 pm
Court returns after lunch break By Kyle Schnitzer
A new witness will be called as we return to court from the lunch break.
Trump attorney Todd Blanche said he was notified of witness' identity 30 minutes ago. Blanche has a list of objections about the witness, who is believed to be a woman.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 07:38:31 pm
Quote
an hour ago Next witness will be Deb Tarasoff: prosecutors By Kyle Schnitzer
The next witness will be Deb Tarasoff, an accounts payable supervisor who worked with Jeff McConney at the Trump Organization, according to prosecutors.
(https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/05/5-6-24-trump-organization-81332853.jpg?quality=80&strip=all) Former longtime Trump Organization comptroller Jeff McConney leaving Manhattan Supreme Court after testifying today in the Donald Trump hush money trial involving Stormy Daniels.
Quote
28 minutes ago Trump signed checks with a black Sharpie, had them mailed to White House: witness By Kyle Schnitzer
Deborah Tarasoff, a Trump Organization accountant, testified that Donald Trump would sign his name with a black Sharpie pen — and had the checks mailed to him while at the White House.
Tarasoff said that when Trump didn’t want to sign a check, he would “write 'Void' and send it back.”
When asked by prosecutors how she was sure it was Trump’s signature, she responded that a Sharpie is “what he uses.”
Tarasoff added that when Trump took office, the checks would be sent to the White House via FedEx awaiting Trump’s signature because only Trump was authorized to sign off on his personal account.
Quote
22 minutes ago Jurors shown checks made to Michael Cohen including one for $70K
The jury was shown a check for $70,000 covering the January and February payments from the trust to Michael Cohen. The check has two signatures — Eric Trump and Allen Weisselberg.
Another check — dated February 14, 2017 — was also shown, but this check addressed to Cohen was stamped VOID.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 08:07:48 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Tarasoff done testifying, trial ending early today
Deborah Tarasoff finished testifying on the witness stand after a brief cross-examination by Trump's attorneys.
After a brief sidebar, the judge told the jurors that the court is ending early Monday.
Quote
6 minutes ago Trump fist bumps former longtime employee after he testifies as prosecution witness
Donald Trump gave Jeffrey McConney — his former longtime company controller and a prosecution witness — a fist bump and a smile as McConney walked out of the courtroom after finishing his testimony.
I hope it taught him that he had no sense of humor.
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 06, 2024, 08:58:36 pm
There are a few Jurors who will find him guilty no matter what, so the best Trump can get out of this is a hung jury.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 06, 2024, 09:19:09 pm
Quote
Witness Says Trump Did Not Personally Ask Him to Carry Out ‘Hush Money’ Payments Epoch Times, May 6, 2024
A witness in former President Donald Trump’s New York “hush money” trial on Monday appeared to confirm his attorneys’ claims that payments at the center of the case were legal expenses and that he was not personally directed by the former president to make those payments.
Former Trump Organization controller Jeffrey McConney testified Monday that payments that were sent to former attorney Michael Cohen were legal expenses, confirming defense attorneys’ arguments.
“Michael Cohen was a lawyer?” Trump defense attorney Emil Bove asked Mr. McConney. “Sure, yes,” he replied.
Story continues below advertisement
“And payments to lawyers by the Trump Organization are legal expenses, right?” asked Mr. Bove. “Yes,” said Mr. McConney.
Later, Mr. McConney said that President Trump and Trump Organization official Allen Weisselberg never told him to log the payments to Mr. Cohen as legal expenses.
“President Trump did not ask you to do any of the things you just described?” the attorney then asked. “He did not,” Mr. McConney replied.
“And as far as you know, President Trump did not ask anyone to do those things?” Mr. Bove continued. “In none of the conversations that you had with Weisselberg, did he suggest that President Trump had told him to do these things?” he also asked.
“Allen never told me that,” Mr. McConney said.
Mr. McConney said his interactions with Mr. Cohen were “minimal.” He said that other than emails about invoices, he never spoke to Mr. Cohen about the reimbursement arrangement.
In court papers, Trump lawyers have described that the payments that were sent to Mr. Cohen as legal expenses, while prosecutors say that it was an attempt to cover up the true nature of the payments during an election. Mr. Cohen used the funds to pay adult film actress Stormy Daniels to not speak publicly about allegations about an affair in 2006, which President Trump has denied.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 06, 2024, 09:29:54 pm
President Trump: "They want to keep me off the trail for 2-3 more weeks...This is just a political witch hunt--it's election interference...it's a disgrace.". (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 06, 2024, 09:33:04 pm
" Wow. 🚨 CNN reporter says she spoke to her former federal judge father about the Trump hush money case & he said he would’ve recused himself if he was Judge Merchan—mentions his daughter
This case is so obviously a political hit job ordered by Joe Biden" (Video)
President Trump: "They want to keep me off the trail for 2-3 more weeks...This is just a political witch hunt--it's election interference...it's a disgrace.". (Video)
2-3 weeks? Nah, they want Trump off the campaign train indefinitely.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 06, 2024, 09:43:23 pm
"[Trump's] obviously right. We know the judge's payments to Joe Biden...We know the history of his daughter and the way she's making money--millions of dollars from Democratic candidates--clearly against Donald Trump...it's obvious the judge is biased..." (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 10:03:20 pm
Trump says he’d be willing to go to jail over gag order violations by Brett Samuels - 05/06/24 5:07 PM ET
Former President Trump on Monday suggested he would be willing to go to jail over repeated violations of his gag order imposed by a New York judge.
“This judge has given me a gag order and said you’ll go to jail if you violate it,” Trump told reporters after court adjourned for the day in his hush money trial. “And frankly, you know what, our Constitution is much more important than jail. It’s not even close. I’ll do that sacrifice any day.”
“But what’s happening here is a disgrace, and the appellate courts ought to get involved,” Trump added.
Judge Juan Merchan on Monday found Trump violated a gag order for a 10th time and ordered him to pay $1,000 for attacking jurors in his hush money criminal trial, just days after the judge ruled on an earlier set of gag order violations.
Merchan warned Trump that future violations could be punishable by incarceration.
more https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4647233-donald-trump-jail-gag-order-new-york-trial/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 10:05:06 pm
How long could Trump be jailed if he violates his gag order again? by Michael Bartiromo and Addy Bink - 05/06/24 2:14 PM ET
(NEXSTAR) — Donald Trump was found to be in criminal contempt Monday after the judge in his hush-money trial determined the former president had violated his gag order once again.
Judge Juan M. Merchan ordered Trump to pay a $1,000 fine — marking the tenth such fine that Trump has been issued for violating an order that bars what he can say about those involved in the case, including witnesses and jurors.
The latest ruling came in response to comments Trump made on April 22, during which Trump claimed on a conservative news program that the trial was being rushed, and the jury selection had been “unfair.”
“You know [the judge is] rushing the trial like crazy,” Trump said during the April 22 news segment, according to the judge’s decision. “Nobody’s ever seen a thing go like this. That jury was picked so fast — 95% Democrats. The area’s mostly all Democrat. You think of it as a — just a purely Democrat area. It’s a very unfair situation. That I can tell you.”
more https://thehill.com/homenews/nexstar_media_wire/4646500-how-long-could-trump-be-jailed-if-he-violates-his-gag-order-again/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 06, 2024, 10:08:37 pm
Alex Bruesewitz @alexbruesewitz
🚨Biden sent his #3 DOJ official Matthew Colangelo to Bragg’s office to help prosecute Trump.
Now we learn that Colangelo was also getting paid by the DNC.
SO CORRUPT!!! Biden admin and the dnc are 100% pulling the strings!
I would think that a new jury would be picked, and they'd retry the case? I doubt that the judge would dismiss the case -- which would be the best case scenario.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on May 06, 2024, 10:28:25 pm
A hung jury is a win for Trump. By the time they get around to setting up a new trial, Trump will already be in the White House, and the Supreme Court will toss it.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on May 06, 2024, 10:33:34 pm
The Secret Service detail won't have any part of this idea...putting Pres. Trump in jail/detention.
Yeah, thinking the same thing. Their job is to protect the President. And that will prove impossible inside a jail. I expect a real showdown with guns drawn - Secret Service v. New York sheriffs.
Which Supreme Court Justice covers New York?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 06, 2024, 10:38:54 pm
IIRC there was an articled not too long ago about meetings the SS had re something like this happened..I think it dealt mainly with Trump going to prison..
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 06, 2024, 10:53:17 pm
I would think that a new jury would be picked, and they'd retry the case? I doubt that the judge would dismiss the case -- which would be the best case scenario.
I believe it is the prosecutor's option to retry or not, not the judge's. And this prosecutor will retry.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 06, 2024, 11:04:28 pm
I think Trump's challenge to take jail for the sake of the constitution, was a plus for him today.
This circus of a trial shouldn't even be happening. I continue to be concerned about the stress that this is putting on him and his family; especially Barron and Melania.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 01:36:31 am
This circus of a trial shouldn't even be happening. I continue to be concerned about the stress that this is putting on him and his family; especially Barron and Melania.
After he wins, I hope he cuts them all off at the knees. I hope DJT takes vindictive to new levels.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: deb on May 07, 2024, 11:28:34 am
This circus of a trial shouldn't even be happening. I continue to be concerned about the stress that this is putting on him and his family; especially Barron and Melania.
It has to be incredibly stressful for him. We pray for his health.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 01:28:26 pm
Day 13
Stormy Daniels expected to appear at Trump's 'hush money' trial Tuesday
Porn star Stormy Daniels is expected to take the stand at former President Donald Trump’s “hush money” trial in New York today, the Associated Press reports.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 01:34:27 pm
22 minutes ago Trump posted on Truth Social about next witness this morning — then deleted it By Kaydi Pelletier
Donald Trump posted on Truth social about an hour and a half ago that he heard who the next witness would be, and that his lawyers had no time to prepare.
The former president is under a court gag order that prohibits him from commenting about the jury or witnesses in the trial. The judge has found him in violation of the order 10 times, and has fined Trump $10,000 as well as threatened the defendant with jail time "as a last resort."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 01:34:57 pm
3 minutes ago Trump cites reports from liberal media outlets as even those say DA has no case By Kaydi Pelletier
Wearing a navy suit and gold tie this morning, Trump spoke to reporters in the court hallway first commenting on canceled college graduations at Columbia and elsewhere, saying he's "never seen anything like this."
He went on to defend the payments to his former "fixer" lawyer, Michael Cohen, that are at the crux of the case.
"The legal expense that we paid was put down as legal expense," he said. "Everyone's saying 'Oh geez, that's the fraud.'
"The other thing: this was approved by all agencies, there's been nothing hidden at all."
Trump also claimed that "some of the statements made about this witch hunt" — even by left-leaning media outlets like "fake news CNN," "Good Morning America" and NBC's "Today" are saying the prosecution "has no case."
"With all that's going on, they have no case," Trump said. "Virtually everyone that I've seen has said there's no case.
"This all comes out of the White House and crooked Joe Biden.
"It happens in third world countries. It's never happened in this country."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 01:42:29 pm
US Secret Service in discussions over how to handle potential Trump jail time
The U.S. Secret Service is holding internal discussions regarding former President Trump potentially going to jail, Fox News has learned.
Those conversations picked up Monday after Judge Juan Merchan floated the possibility of sending Trump to jail if he makes further violations against Merchan's gag order in the New York v. Trump case.
The Secret Service declined to comment on the discussions.
Merchan threatened Trump with jail time on Monday after finding that he violated the judge's gag order for a 10th time, resulting in a total fine of $10,000. Merchan said the fines clearly were not having the desired effect, so he warned that further violations could result in incarceration.
Merchan's gag order, imposed April 1, prohibits Trump from speaking publicly about witnesses in the case, such as pornography actress Stormy Daniels and former lawyer Michael Cohen.
Fox News' David Spunt contributed to this report Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 01:42:54 pm
a minute ago Stormy Daniels to describe alleged sexual encounter with Trump at trial today
Porn star Stormy Daniels will describe her alleged sexual encounter with Donald Trump today at his trial, a prosecutor just said now.
"The general details of what occurred, including the sex act, are a significant part of the story and are very important for us,” prosecutor Susan Hoffinger said.
“The details of the encounter are important,” Hoffinger added. “It’s important for us to establish her credibility.”
But the prosecutor noted there will be some limits to Daniels’ testimony.
“In terms of the sexual act, it will be very basic,” she told the court. “It will not involve descriptions of genitalia.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 01:49:30 pm
4 minutes ago Penguin Random House bigwig testifying at Trump trial
There's a new witnesses, but it's not Stormy Daniels.
Prosecutors called Sally Franklin, the senior vice president and executive managing editor for Penguin Random House publishing group.
Franklin is currently testifying about Donald Trump's book, "Trump How To Get Rich," which claims to be a No. 1 national bestseller.
Trump wrote the book with the help Meredith McIver, which was published by Ballantine Books.
Jurors are being show the cover of the book.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 01:57:57 pm
2 minutes ago Trump bragged in book that all women 'flirted with me' on 'The Apprentice': testimony
Donald Trump claimed in a book that all women on "The Apprentice" flirted with him "consciously or unconsciously" because there's "always" a sexual dynamic between unless you're asexual," a witness testified.
Penguin Random House's Sally Franklin is currently reading excerpts from Trump's 2004 book, "Trump How To Get Rich."
"All the women on The Apprentice flirted with me — consciously or unconsciously. That’s to be expected. A sexual dynamic is always present between people, unless you are asexual," Franklin testified, reading from the excerpt.
The book was published before Trump's alleged tryst with Stormy Daniels.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:14:04 pm
12 minutes ago 'Penny pinching? You bet. I'm all for it,' Trump wrote in book excerpt shown to jury By Ben Kochman
Trump defended the practice of "penny pinching" in another book excerpt shown just now to jurors.
“Penny pinching? You bet. I'm all for it,” Trump wrote in "Trump: Think like a Billionaire," published in 2004.
Trump also noted that he once proudly cashed a check for just $.50 as part of a "test" by Spy Magazine to find the "world's cheapest billionaire."
“They may call that cheap, I call it watching the bottom line,” he bragged in the book.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:14:57 pm
24 min(s) ago Trump attorneys object to prosecution plan to reveal 'full details' of sex act with Stormy Daniels
Attorneys for Former President Trump objected to prosecutors' plans to go through the "full details" of the alleged sex act between pornography actress Stormy Daniels and Trump during the New York criminal trial.
Trump's team argued there is no need for the details, and they further argue that there is an issue with her credibility since Daniels has signed papers saying the sex act didn't happen.
Prosecutors clarified that they would "not go into details of genitalia."
Judge Juan Merchan sided with prosecutors, saying they could ask Daniels for the details they outlined.
Daniels is expected to take the stand this week, and could do so as early as Tuesday. Trump is alleged to have given her a $130,000 hush money payment through former lawyer Michael Cohen ahead of the 2016 election. Posted by Anders Hagstrom
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:26:54 pm
Publishing executive finishes testifying
Penguin Random House’s Sally Franklin is off the stand after testifying about books that Donald Trump published with the publishing firm.
Attorneys are having a sidebar.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:33:27 pm
Stormy Daniels takes the stand in Trump trial
Adult film actress Stormy Daniels took the witness stand Tuesday in the unprecedented criminal trial of former President Donald Trump in the case, N.Y. v. Trump.
Trump is alleged to have given Daniels a $130,000 payment through his former lawyer Michael Cohen ahead of the 2016 election to quiet her story of an alleged affair with Trump in the early 2000s. Trump has denied the affair.
Earlier on Tuesday, Trump's defense attorneys objected to prosecutors' plans to go through the "full details" of the alleged sex act between Daniels and Trump during the New York criminal trial.
Trump's team argued there is no need for the details, and they further argue that there is an issue with her credibility since Daniels has signed papers saying the sex act didn't happen. Prosecutors clarified that they would "not go into details of genitalia."
Judge Juan Merchan sided with prosecutors, saying they could ask Daniels for the details they outlined.
Fox News Digital's Anders Hagstrom contributed to this update. Posted by Brianna Herlihy
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:35:20 pm
a few seconds ago Stormy Daniels takes the stand
Wearing all black, Stormy Daniels just took the witness stand.
Like all other witnesses at the trial, she walked into the room through a side door, and behind the defense table.
Trump looked forward, then turned his head to the right as Daniels walked by.
Daniels did not appear to make eye contact with Trump as she took her seat.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 02:39:26 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:45:20 pm
Quote
a minute ago Jurors smile as Daniels describes how she got into 'exotic dancing' at age of 21
A couple of the jurors flashed smiles from jurors as Stormy Daniels describes how she first got into stripping, before later starting a career as a porn.
When she was 21 years old, a friend invited her to watch her dance.
Daniels thought the friend meant ballet dance, or tap.
"I was wrong; she was an exotic dancer," Daniels said.
At least two jurors flashed a smile at that remark.
Quote
2 minutes ago Stormy Daniels says she first started working in adult film industry at 23 By Kyle Schnitzer
Daniels testified that she first started working in the adult film industry at 23.
Quote
7 minutes ago Attorney passes Trump note during Stormy Daniels' testimony
Todd Blanche, an attorney for Donald Trump, passed a note to the former president while Stormy Daniels testified about her educational background.
Trump viewed the note under the table and then quickly placed the note in the breast pocket of his blue blazer.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:49:29 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago Daniels talks about roles in movies like 'The 40-Year-Old Virgin' and 'Superbad' By Kyle Schnitzer
Stormy Daniels said she did some work for Hollywood in movies like "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" and "Knocked Up."
Daniels testified that she appeared in Steve Carrell's "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," where she played the role of "porn star," according to IMDB.
Additionally, Daniels said she appeared in comedies like "Knocked Up" and "Superbad," while once appearing in a music video for the band Maroon 5.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 02:56:48 pm
Quote
a minute ago Trump called Daniels 'the smart one' because she was a porn director as well as actor: testimony By Ben Kochman
Donald Trump met Stormy Daniels at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe in 2006 — where he told her she was "the smart one" because she both directed and acted in porn, she testified.
"He said, 'You direct, too. You must be the smart one,'" Daniels told jurors.
Trump repeated the same comment later in the course's "gift room" — and jurors saw the infamous photo of them posing together, with Trump wearing a yellow polo shirt and red cap.
Quote
2 minutes ago Daniels points out Trump in courtroom after asked to ID him by prosecutors
Stormy Daniels just identified Donald Trump in the courtroom after prosecutors asked her if she saw him today.
"Do you see Mr. Trump in the courtroom today," Manhattan prosecutor Susan Hoffinger asked.
Daniels then moved chaotically around on the witness stand in an effort to see Trump around a monitor, before pointing in Trump's direction.
"Navy blue jacket, second at the table," Daniels said.
Trump did not appear to respond when identified.
Quote
5 minutes ago Daniels makes sex joke about 'holes' in courtroom: 'Very funny' By Kyle Schnitzer
Stormy Daniels is testifying about a Lake Tahoe golf tournament at Lake Tahoe where she met Donald Trump in 2006, cracking a joke about golf "holes" that were sponsored by her adult film company, Wicked.
“Wicked sponsored one of the holes on the golf course," Daniels testified. "I know that is very funny when you’re an adult film star sponsoring one of the holes."
The joke drew a chorus of laughs from the overflow room.
Daniels testified was 27 at the time when she met Trump.
"I didn't know his age but I knew he was probably around the age or older than my father," she said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 02:56:49 pm
Jack Poso @JackPosobiec
BREAKING: Prosecutors have just requested Stormy Daniels slow down in the courtroom
10:48 AM · May 7, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 03:02:54 pm
Jack Poso @JackPosobiec
BREAKING: Stormy Daniels asked if it was going to be a hung jury
10:58 AM · May 7, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 07, 2024, 03:03:54 pm
:2popcorn: :pop41:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:05:03 pm
🇺🇸 Mike Davis 🇺🇸 @mrddmia · 1h Here is my response to any judge who attempts to place an unconstitutional gag order on me:
bleep you.
Jail me.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:09:39 pm
a minute ago Daniels teased Trump for welcoming her touxe hotel suite wearing 'Hugh Hefner' style pajamas By Ben Kochman
Donald Trump welcomed Daniels to his luxurious hotel suite wearing Hugh Hefner-style "silk or satin" pajamas, Daniels told jurors.
Daniels says she immediately made fun of Trump about this.
"Does Mr. Hefner know you stole his pajamas?" she recalled telling him. It was a reference to Hefner's typical pajamas look during his reign as the publisher of Playboy Magazine.
"I told him to change, and he obliged, very politely," Daniels added.
Trump then came back into the room wearing a button down shirt and pants, she said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 03:10:04 pm
Scott Adams @ScottAdamsSays
Will she testify that Trump gave her a gag order?
8:32 AM · May 7, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:11:56 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 03:13:58 pm
Today is proving that the decline of civilization is near complete.
This stench is driving voters to Trump in droves.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:14:13 pm
a few seconds ago Daniels says porn is more than 'Oh, sorry Mr. Pizza Boy' scenes: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Stormy Daniels testified that Donald Trump asked her about her porn star career when she met him — and defended the industry about being more than "Oh, sorry Mr. Pizza Boy" scenes.
Daniels said when she met Trump they exchanged pleasantries and he asked her about porn star career.
She said Trump asked her "how I went from a porn star to writing and directing."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:15:39 pm
Today is proving that the decline of civilization is near complete.
This stench is driving voters to Trump in droves.
Fox reported earlier that he has lost support from his base...Dana Perino
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 03:15:54 pm
"Stormy Daniels is apparently making scripted jokes in the courtroom to win over the jury and nobody is laughing. She's hurting the prosecution's case by showing the jury how much of an attention seeker she is. This is hilarious" (Video)°
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:16:32 pm
11 minutes ago Daniels says publicist urged her to meet Trump: 'Make a great story' By Kyle Schnitzer
Stormy Daniels testified that her publish urged her to skip a dinner with colleagues to meet Donald Trump because it would "make a great story."
“I was scheduled to go to dinner with everyone from the company that I worked for and I didn’t want to go to," Daniels testified, before admitting that her publicist pushed her to meet Trump because it could be "amazing."
“What better excuse would you have to get out of this dinner than to have dinner with Donald Trump,” Daniels said, recalling the conversation with her publicist.
She then said that she was told it would "make a great story."
Daniels then ended the speech with a funny one liner, "What could possibly go wrong?"
The meeting was set after Daniels met Trump's security guard, Keith Schiller, earlier in the day.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 03:17:05 pm
Fox reported earlier that he has lost support from his base...Dana Perino
Sorry, Dana, he hasn't. :laugh:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:17:10 pm
2 minutes ago Who is Stormy Daniels? By Priscilla DeGregory
Stormy Daniels -- whose real name is Stephanie Clifford -- is an adult film actress who got into the business when she was just 23, she testified Tuesday.
Daniels, 45, -- who has had a long-time career in the porn business -- has also made appearances in popular mainstream films like "40-Year-Old Virgin," "Superbad" and "Knocked up," she told jurors.
She first got into exotic dancing in Louisiana at 21 when a friend invited her to watch her dance, and Stormy, believing she meant ballet dancing or something similar, attended only to discover the pal was an exotic dancer.
Daniels then moved to Los Angeles to make porn films in which she acted, directed and wrote, according to CNN. She was inducted into the Adult video News Hall of Fame in 2014, the outlet reported.
Daniels is a key witness against Donald Trump as she claims the former prez had her paid off with $130,000 to keep her from going public in the run-up to the 2016 election about her claims she had a one-night stand with a married Trump in 2006.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:21:00 pm
10:16 Stormy Daniels says they did bring up Donald Trump’s wife Melania
Stormy Daniels recalls during their conversation at dinner that Melania Trump was brought up.
‘Yeah very brief,’ Stormy Daniels remembers.
Daniels remembers Trump saying ‘oh don’t worry about that.’
He told her they don’t sleep in the same room, Daniels says.
DailyMail
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:22:25 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago Daniels testifies that Trump told her not to 'worry' about his wife Melania,'We don't even sleep in the same room' By Ben Kochman and Kyle Schnitzer
Trump told Daniels during the 2006 meeting not to "worry" about his wife Melania, who he'd married a year earlier — because he did not even sleep in the same room as her, Daniels testified.
“He showed me a few pictures and things, and I said 'Oh, what about your wife," Daniels told jurors.
"He said, 'Don’t worry about that, we don’t even sleep in the same room." Daniels continued.
Trump sat silently at the defense table during this testimony and had no noticeable reaction.
Quote
2 minutes ago Stormy Daniels: I spanked Trump with a magazine
Stormy Daniels testified that she spanked Donald Trump with a rolled up magazine that donned his face on the cover.
"At this point I’d pretty much had enough of his arrogance," Daniels said about her night with Trump.
She said she was acting "pretty nasty" before she "snapped."
"I said, 'Someone should spank you with that."
Daniels then added, "I took it and turned him around and swatted him."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:25:13 pm
Quote
10:23 Stormy Daniels is putting on a show in court
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside court:
The jury is getting a show today. Stormy Daniels is a very expressive witness, using her hands and face - all nose wrinkles, and pouts, and smiles - to tell her story.
We have heard about 'condom mandatory' porn shoots, how frequently she is tested for STD (once a month in 2006, twice a month now), her 'blond hair and big boobs, as well as the first meeting with Trump, when she spanked him with a rolled up magazine.
The 12 jurors and the alternates are listening intently, just as poker-faced as they were yesterday when they heard a dry discussion of invoices, checks and ledgers.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 03:25:13 pm
2 minutes ago Who is Stormy Daniels? By Priscilla DeGregory
Daniels is a key witness against Donald Trump as she claims the former prez had her paid off with $130,000 to keep her from going public in the run-up to the 2016 election about her claims she had a one-night stand with a married Trump in 2006.
Quote
Amid publicity tour, porn star Stormy Daniels denies having an affair with Trump CNBC, Jan 31, 2018
Adult film star Stormy Daniels, in the midst of a publicity tour fueled by past allegations of a 2006 sexual relationship with a then-married Donald Trump, said in a statement on Tuesday the alleged affair never occurred.
Keith Davidson, a lawyer for Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, confirmed the statement was authentic but didn’t offer any further details.
The statement came at a curious time for Clifford, who appeared after the president’s State of the Union address on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” In recent weeks she has changed production companies, given a television interview and promoted strip club appearances with a risque play on Trump’s “Make America Great Again,” campaign slogan.
[...]
In her statement Tuesday, Clifford said she wasn’t denying the affair because she was paid “hush money,” but rather “because it never happened.”
Neither Cohen nor Clifford have addressed whether she was paid $130,000, and if so why.
A publicist didn’t respond to questions about the statement Tuesday.
It would serve Perino well to have some data to back her claim. I can’t find anything that backs her claim
Bill Hemmer read off a set of numbers that claimed Trump is losing support from his base over this trial and that Stormy Daniels testimony may hurt it even more...Dana agreed with the numbers....I don't remember what Poll Bill was reading from I was busy with this thread..
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:35:53 pm
Court is on break
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on May 07, 2024, 03:37:32 pm
Bill Hemmer read off a set of numbers that claimed Trump is losing support from his base over this trial and that Stormy Daniels testimony may hurt it even more...Dana agreed with the numbers....I don't remember what Poll Bill was reading from I was busy with this thread..
I’ll have to go a little bit more online hunting
I just did a cursory search online to try to find backing to her claim
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 03:37:39 pm
It would serve Perino well to have some data to back her claim. I can’t find anything that backs her claim
Including the last Rasmussen poll which has Trump up by 12. There are no polling trends favoring Biden right now, so I have no idea where she is getting this from either.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 03:41:00 pm
Jonathan Turley @JonathanTurley
Stormy Daniels is about to be called in New York, who sought to sell her story on Trump and received payment for a NDA. It is not clear what she offers beyond salacious details to embarrass Trump. The NDA is not in dispute...
..Her testimony will not materially impact the evidence on whether reimbursement to Cohen was correctly denoted on records. Ironically, even a porn star who sought to cash in on a scandal may be more credible than the serial perjurer, disbarred Cohen.
9:10 AM · May 7, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:43:25 pm
:shrug:
a minute ago Stormy Daniels puts on her glasses as testimony resumes
Stormy Daniels has resumed testifying after a morning break.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 03:44:06 pm
Looking forward to her response when the Defense sets this document in front of her.
But I guess Porn Stars never lie, do they? :silly:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 03:45:12 pm
10:39 Court resumes from morning break
Judge Merchan admonishes prosecutor and says that the level of detail Stormy Daniels has been going into is unnecessary.
He says when she returns, they should move it along more quickly.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 03:45:33 pm
I hope every appellate court justice is paying close attention to this travesty and understands this could easily be happening to him or her.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Sighlass on May 07, 2024, 03:46:13 pm
This is what we get for putting a clown in office. There is no moral high ground left and the left makes sure we never forget it. Thanks Trump supporters, sincerely thanks... /end sarcasm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 03:49:30 pm
Looking forward to her response when the Defense sets this document in front of her.
But I guess Porn Stars never lie, do they? :silly:
Those were the terms of her NDA with Trump. They're both liars.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:00:01 pm
6 minutes ago Stormy Daniels testifies she had sex with Donald Trump: 'Missionary position' By Kyle Schnitzer
Stormy Daniels testified that she had sex with Donald Trump on a hotel bed.
Daniels said that they were having sex "in missionary position" before an objection was raised, and the judge sustained the objection.
Daniels testified that Trump wasn't wearing a condom, which she admitted was a concern.
Asked if the sexual encounter was brief, Daniels replied, "Yes."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:00:44 pm
MOL
10:49 Stormy Daniels recalls Donald Trump being on the bed in his boxers when she exited bathroom
Stormy Daniels recalls having to use the bathroom. She remembers washing her hands and touching up her lipstick and looking in a leather toiletry bag, ‘I did look, I’m not proud of it,' Daniels says.
Daniels remembers Old Spice and Pur Plus, which she thought was amusing. She also recalls gold tweezers.
She remembers coming out of the bathroom, and Trump being on the bed in boxer shorts and a t-shirt. She says she was startled at first.
She felt the room 'spun' in that moment.
‘Oh my god, what did I misread to get here?’ Daniels remembers thinking.
She recalls trying to step around and leave and thinking she put herself in a bad situation.
Daniels remembers Trump standing up but she insists it was ‘not in a threatening manner.’
‘I think I blacked out,’ Daniels said. She says she just does not remember, but she was not drunk or on drugs.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 04:03:37 pm
Judge Merchan admonishes prosecutor and says that the level of detail Stormy Daniels has been going into is unnecessary.
He says when she returns, they should move it along more quickly.
Of course he did ---- they're proving she's a lowlife and Jeffrey Toobin just called begging for a rest ......
Quote
Paul Ingrassia @PaulIngrassia
BREAKING: Bragg’s prosecutors questioning Daniels about her STD tests and preferred sex positions. What a sleazy, disgusting trial.
With this political persecution, we are witnessing the execution of due process and rule of law in real time by Biden and his acolytes.
What a tragedy — the damage being done to the justice system will take years to repair, and may be permanent.
11:13 AM · May 7, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:08:57 pm
3 minutes ago Trump introduced Stormy Daniels to NFL star Ben Roethlisberger night after sex: testimony
Stormy Daniels testified that the night after she had sex with Donald Trump, she met him the next day in Lake Tahoe where he introduced to her to his "friend" — former Steelers Super-Bowl winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
Daniels said that Trump's bodyguard told her that Trump wanted to talk to her again, and she met Trump at one of the night clubs at the charity event.
"Trump was sitting in a booth, not drinking, at a nightclub with his friends and bodyguard," Daniels said. "He introduced as his old friend Stormy to Big Ben."
Daniels is referring to the NFL star's nickname, she said.
Daniels recalled how she remembers getting the chance to try on Roethlisberger's Super Bowl ring because she could fit two fingers in it.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:10:27 pm
MOL
11:00 Stormy Daniels tells the court about having sex with Donald Trump
The prosecutor asks Stormy Daniels if she did end up having sex with Donald Trump on the bed?
‘Yes,’ Daniels says.
Daniels is asked to describe it briefly. She testifies that the next thing she knew, she was on the bed and had her clothes and shoes off. She says she still had her bra on. It was missionary position.
She recalls staring up at the ceiling.
The prosecutor asks if he was wearing a condom?
‘No,' Daniels says.
She recalls it being brief.
Daniels remembers getting dressed and that it was ‘absolutely dark outside.’
She testifies that her hands were shaking so hard she was having a hard time with the buckles on her shoes.
She did not say no at any time.
‘I didn’t say anything at all,' Daniels says.
She remembers taking a cab back.
‘I felt ashamed that I didn’t stop it, that I didn’t say no,' Daniels says.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 04:11:16 pm
I agree with the other posters....
This case has no chance of beating a Trump appeal, no matter how sleazy and biased the jurors are. This whole exercise was for maximum embarrassment....... nothing more.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 04:12:03 pm
The more things change the more they stay the same.
Except at least in slick willie's resume' he bonked a subordinate, and likely raped a woman.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 04:15:01 pm
I wonder how much more Stormy will owe Trump in legal fees after this. :laugh:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:16:15 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Jurors smiled at 'spanking' comment, but kept straight face when Daniels described sexual encounter with Trump
A couple of the trial jurors flashed smiles earlier when Stormy Daniels described spanking Donald Trump with a magazine inside Trump's hotel suite.
But the panelists kept a straight face while Daniels described having sex with Trump later that night.
Daniels appeared to show discomfort when describing the sexual encounter, and at times nervously brushed her blond hair back with her left hand.
She told jurors that "there was an imbalance of power for sure" in the room with Trump, but that "I was not threatened verbally or physically."
She was then asked whether she said "no" at any point during the encounter.
"I didn't say anything," she replied.
Quote
2 minutes ago Stormy Daniels appears to be staring at Trump while testifying
Daniels' eyes appear to be leaning right as she testifies in the direction of Donald Trump — not at the lectern where Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Susan Hoffinger is standing.
Meanwhile, Trump appears to be looking forward and is slouched back in his chair.
Daniels is recounting about the time when Trump introduced her to another friend of his, Playboy model Karen McDougal.
Quote
3 minutes ago Eric Trump tweets from courtroom: Prosecutors 'giddy by this salacious show' By Kaydi Pelletier
Eric Trump, who accompanied his father to the trial today, tweeted from the courtroom that he's "attempting to figure out how any of this garbage from 20 years ago relates to 'legal' bills submitted by a long time personal attorney being booked as a “legal” expense," as Stormy Daniels testifies.
Bill Hemmer read off a set of numbers that claimed Trump is losing support from his base over this trial and that Stormy Daniels testimony may hurt it even more...Dana agreed with the numbers....I don't remember what Poll Bill was reading from I was busy with this thread..
Are these the same folks who called Arizona for Biden before the counting started?
Asking for a friend.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:18:30 pm
a minute ago Daniels: Trump didn't seem concerned about Trump Tower visit
Stormy Daniels testified that Donald Trump didn't seem concerned when she visited him at Trump Tower.
“Oh no, he introduced me to everyone," Daniels testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 04:18:33 pm
I wonder how much more Stormy will owe Trump in legal fees after this. :laugh:
Zip. The court supersedes any NDA.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:19:02 pm
a few seconds ago Daniels says she was 'ashamed' to sleep with Trump: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Recalling a time when she dated her former publicist, Stormy Daniels testified that she did not share the "sexual part" about her encounter with Donald Trump with her then boyfriend because she was "ashamed."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 04:20:01 pm
a few seconds ago Daniels says she was 'ashamed' to sleep with Trump: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Recalling a time when she dated her former publicist, Stormy Daniels testified that she did not share the "sexual part" about her encounter with Donald Trump with her then boyfriend because she was "ashamed."
This already sounds like a Babylon Bee Piece. She's ashamed to sleep with Trump, but not ashamed of being a Porn Star? Come on wench..... at least have your testimony pass the "red faced test" Did the galley laugh out loud at that one?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 04:24:43 pm
At that time he thought he'd be running for President as a demonrat and that would be a resume enhancer.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:27:03 pm
OMG
Quote
3 minutes ago Stormy Daniels says she denied Trump's sex offer in 2007: 'I told him I was on my period'
When asked about a time when Trump invited her to the Miss USA beauty pageant and seeing him again in the summer of 2007 at a bungalow in Los Angeles, Daniels said she wasn't wasn't interested in sleeping with him.
"I told him I was on my period," Daniels told the jury.
Daniels said Trump kept making "sexual advances, putting his hand on my leg."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 04:27:22 pm
This already sounds like a Babylon Bee Piece. She's ashamed to sleep with Trump, but not ashamed of being a Porn Star? Come on wench..... at least have your testimony pass the "red faced test" Did the galley laugh out loud at that one?
Well, if that were the case she would have said he "grabbed her by the bleep"...
That would have gone into the stratosphere...
She still might...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 04:29:41 pm
Quote
Daniels said Trump kept making "sexual advances, putting his hand on my leg."
At least he didn't grab your genitals.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:31:34 pm
Matthew Colangelo’s Wife Sits on NAACP Legal Defense Fund Board with Jonathan Soros
Manhattan prosecutor Matthew Colangelo’s wife, Anne Small, sits on the board of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund with Jonathan Soros.
What are you talking about? She currently owes Trump over $300,000 in COURT ordered reimbursement of legal fees.
What Trump does about the slander is anyone's guess. :shrug:
You said "how much more"... That has zip to do with any past debt. Nice try though.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:37:18 pm
3 minutes ago Daniels says man 'threatened' her in parking lot to not tell Donald Trump story
Stormy Daniels testified that weeks after she was interviewed by In Touch magazine, she was approached by a man in a parking lot in Las Vegas in 2011 who “threatened” her to not tell her story with Donald Trump.
Daniels said she was with her infant daughter at the time and they were going to a workout class together.
“I thought he was the father or husband of another woman,” Daniels said, but then added to the jury: “He threatened me to not continue to tell my story.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 04:39:21 pm
Melania must be feeling poorly with this airing of her husband's dirty laundry.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:39:43 pm
11:32 Trump watches Stormy's jaw-dropping testimony through TV monitor in front of him
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside court:
Trump's view of Stormy Daniels in the courtroom is largely obscured by the judge's dais.
When Daniels was asked to identify him in the courtroom, she had to lean forward and twist to her right in order to see him.
For his part, Trump looks to be watching her testimony on the video monitor in front of him, in what is a very 'Trumpy' way to observe your own trial.
3 minutes ago Daniels says man 'threatened' her in parking lot to not tell Donald Trump story
Stormy Daniels testified that weeks after she was interviewed by In Touch magazine, she was approached by a man in a parking lot in Las Vegas in 2011 who “threatened” her to not tell her story with Donald Trump.
Daniels said she was with her infant daughter at the time and they were going to a workout class together.
“I thought he was the father or husband of another woman,” Daniels said, but then added to the jury: “He threatened me to not continue to tell my story.”
Okay Stormy... where's the police report on that extortion attempt. Shit... she lies more than Cohen.
p.s. What infant can attend a work out class. :silly:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:42:57 pm
MOL
11:32 Daniels describes how she did an interview with InTouch magazine that never ran
Daniels told the court how she ended up doing an interview with In Touch magazine about Trump, but it never ran.
She told the court she was supposed to be paid $15,000 for the article in 2011 that was never published.
Here is the exchange between Daniels' publicist Gina Rodriguez and National Enquirer editor Dylan Howard about InTouch.
The messages that claim Trump tried to silence Stormy Daniels in 2012 Donald Trump threatened to put a celebrity publicist out of business if she helped Stormy Daniels sell her story in 2012, according to messages entered into court evidence this week.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 04:43:07 pm
And again, a billionaire doesn't pay someone $130,000 to keep them quiet if nothing happened. They instead sue them out of existence.
Not really picking a side, except for the point that this is premeditated character assassination event to re-elect Pedo Joe, by any and every means possible. I don't like Trump, but loathe biden.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 04:48:15 pm
a minute ago Trump, Cohen wanted to buy story after 'Access Hollywood' tape: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Stormy Daniels said that Donald Trump and Michael Cohen were interested in buying her story in October 2016, after the infamous "Access Hollywood" tape was leaked, testimony shows.
Daniels was approached by Gina Rodriguez with the proposal that Trump and Cohen wanted to purchase the story.
"They were interested in paying for the story," Daniels said in reference to Cohen and Trump.
Daniels testified that it could've been the "best thing" to happen "because then I'd be safe and the story wouldn't come out."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 04:48:32 pm
Didn't Avenatti claim that Cohen was sleeping with Stormy and the two of them cooked up this $130K extortion plat?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 04:48:38 pm
3 minutes ago Daniels says man 'threatened' her in parking lot to not tell Donald Trump story
Stormy Daniels testified that weeks after she was interviewed by In Touch magazine, she was approached by a man in a parking lot in Las Vegas in 2011 who “threatened” her to not tell her story with Donald Trump.
Daniels said she was with her infant daughter at the time and they were going to a workout class together.
“I thought he was the father or husband of another woman,” Daniels said, but then added to the jury: “He threatened me to not continue to tell my story.”
Quote
Apr 5, 2023
CNN — Three thousand miles away from his New York legal drama, Donald Trump secured a substantial victory in another court.
The 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the former president in his effort to recoup additional legal fees from adult film star Stormy Daniels, who had filed and lost a defamation suit against him.
Daniels was ordered to pay Trump’s attorneys just over $120,000 in legal fees. That’s on top of the more than $500,000 in court-ordered payments to Trump attorneys she’s already been ordered to pay.
Daniels had sued Trump in 2018 after he called an allegation by Daniels that an unknown man threatened her in a parking lot to keep quiet about her alleged affair with Trump a “total con job” in a tweet.
If I was a billionaire in need of a sex partner, I sure as hell wouldn't be talking to Stormy Daniels!
Totally agree. Too many of the extremely wealthy and/or powerful think differently. They think they can indulge in whatever catches their eye without consequences.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 04:56:52 pm
Trump wasn't looking for a "relationship". He was indulging his urges.
Discreet urges then. DJT knew the consequences of divorce, bad press, and scandal that could impact business. My point is that I am sure he had trysts, but he was at least smart enough to avoid those that could create shitstorms later.
The more I am hearing today, makes me less likely to believe that they even connected. Too many lies upon lies. Right now I am 50/50 on this being an affair, versus a well orchestrated shake down.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 05:11:45 pm
Discreet urges then. DJT knew the consequences of divorce, bad press, and scandal that could impact business. My point is that I am sure he had trysts, but he was at least smart enough to avoid those that could create shitstorms later.
The more I am hearing today, makes me less likely to believe that they even connected. Too many lies upon lies. Right now I am 50/50 on this being an affair, versus a well orchestrated shake down.
I see you point of view @catfish1957 and I was there with you when this was first exposed in 16. Now I am convinced the screwing of America occurred between Stormy's legs and that dumbazz Trump walked blindly into it letting his little head do the thinking~John Hiatt.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on May 07, 2024, 05:13:22 pm
If I was a billionaire in need of a sex partner, I sure as hell wouldn't be talking to Stormy Daniels!
Yup
It would be a turn off for me to want to connect with somebody that admits to have frequent STD tests
I wonder what her dating profile would say if she was on a dating site like EHarmony?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 05:15:16 pm
Eric Trump @EricTrump
Perspective: Sitting front row attempting to figure out how any of this garbage from 20 years ago relates to “legal” bills submitted by a long time personal attorney being booked as a “legal” expense — but I digress.
To be clear, they don’t give a s**t about the merits of this case - the 15 Manhattan prosecutors are sitting at their table and behind in the courthouse pews, giddy by this salacious show. This is the intent, not the merits, nor the fact that this entire case is a massive extortion play.
11:42 AM · May 7, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 05:25:38 pm
Perspective: Sitting front row attempting to figure out how any of this garbage from 20 years ago relates to “legal” bills submitted by a long time personal attorney being booked as a “legal” expense — but I digress.
To be clear, they don’t give a s**t about the merits of this case - the 15 Manhattan prosecutors are sitting at their table and behind in the courthouse pews, giddy by this salacious show. This is the intent, not the merits, nor the fact that this entire case is a massive extortion play.
11:42 AM · May 7, 2024
I agree Eric, this case has no Legal facts and is irrelevant to all but the select few here and elsewhere that continue to point to another Character Flaw, among many, of your Father which we knew right after his infamous escalator ride in 15.
(https://i.imgflip.com/510tpu.jpg)
How did Stormy know she had sex with him :whistle:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 05:37:22 pm
I see you point of view @catfish1957 and I was there with you when this was first exposed in 16. Now I am convinced the screwing of America occurred between Stormy's legs and that dumbazz Trump walked blindly into it letting his little head do the thinking~John Hiatt.
Preaching to the choir. I am disgusted by Trump's candidacy, but that ship has sailed. It's just the fact i don't think we can survive 4 more years of Biden is why we must at least begrudge helping Trump fight back.
Let's get ourselves to '28 and really right the ship.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 05:45:08 pm
Trump will get all 40 electoral votes in Texas and Cruz is coasting in also. So, it doesn't matter if I sit this one out too. If I lived in a Swing State I would advocate for Trump.
Totally agree. Too many of the extremely wealthy and/or powerful think differently. They think they can indulge in whatever catches their eye without consequences.
He had an utterly beautiful wife at home…..
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 05:55:44 pm
Trump will get all 40 electoral votes in Texas and Cruz is coasting in also. So, it doesn't matter if I sit this one out too. If I lived in a Swing State I would advocate for Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:04:44 pm
3 minutes ago Trump back from lunch; court resumes
Court has resumed and Stormy Daniels will continue to testify.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:06:59 pm
MOL
13:01 Defense moves for mistrial
Donald Trump's defense attorney Todd Blanche moves for a mistrial.
Blanche is slamming the testimony of porn star Stormy Daniels. He mentions her testimony on blacking out, not wearing a condom, the power dynamic.
He says all of this has nothing to do with the case and is 'extraordinarily prejudicial.'
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:07:23 pm
MOL
13:02 Trump returns to the courtroom after a wild morning session
The former president is back from lunch and in the courtroom talking with his lead attorney Todd Blanche.
He is making hand gestures while they chat.
Trump had to spend the morning listening to lurid allegations from Stormy Daniels which he has vehemently denied.
It included her very detailed recollection of the sexual encounter she claims they had in a Nevada hotel room in 2006.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:14:40 pm
Okay..With Sarah Sanders as guest talking about this trial Jillian Turner on Fox moments ago mentions
once again that in current polls are showing Trump's base numbers slipping....no poll mentioned!!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:17:48 pm
a minute ago Judge: 'Surprised' Trump's team didn't object more during Stormy Daniels' testimony
“I was surprised there were not more objections to this testimony," Justice Juan Merchan says, after Trump attorney Todd Blanche moved for a mistrial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:20:55 pm
a few seconds ago Trump writes note after judge tosses mistrial attempt
Donald Trump appeared to write a note on a legal pad as the judge tossed his attorneys' move for a mistrial.
He then passed the legal pad in the direction of Todd Blanche, his attorney.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:21:35 pm
a few seconds ago Trump lawyer moves for mistrial , citing Daniels' 'prejudicial,' salacious testimony
Trump attorney Todd Blanche moved Tuesday for a mistrial, citing what he called Stormy Daniels' "prejudicial" and salacious testimony about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump.
Daniels mentioned some details about her alleged tryst with Trump — like that there was an "imbalance of power" between her and the real estate mogul — that could unfairly "inflame the jury," Blanche argued.
“It’s extremely prejudicial to insert safety concerns in a trial about business records," he told the court.
“The issue is she has testified today about consent, about danger – that’s not the point of this case. That’s not the point of her testimony," he added.
"How can you unring that bell?"
Blanche also accused Daniels of changing her story about the encounter over the years.
Judge Merchan declined to grant the mistrial, but said he agreed with Blanche "that there are some things that would have been better left unsaid."
In fairness to the prosecutors, though, he added, "I believe that the witness was very difficult to control."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 06:22:01 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:28:49 pm
Quote
5 minutes ago Judge says Daniels is 'little difficult to control' By Kyle Schnitzer
“In fairness to the people, I think the witness was a little bit difficult to control," Justice Merchan said about Stormy Daniels' testimony.
Quote
2 minutes ago Prosecutors now talking to Stormy Daniels to make sure she stays focused
Manhattan prosecutor Susan Hoffinger stepped out of the courtroom to speak with Stormy Daniels about her testimony, according to the judge.
The judge said the conversation is to "make sure the witness stays focus" on the questions being asked.
Daniels has often went on rambling sprees, usually sharing more than what typically is shared when questions are asked.
Quote
Stormy Daniels resumes testifying after lunch break
Stormy Daniels reentered the courtroom Tuesday afternoon to continue testifying in Donald Trump's hush money trial.
Trump appeared to shift his head left — in the direction of Daniels — when she walked by. The pair did not share eye contact.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:30:58 pm
MOL
13:17 Judge Merchan: I don't believe we're at the point where a mistrial is warranted
‘There were probably things that were better left unsaid,’ Judge Merchan says to defense attorney Todd Blanche of Stormy Daniels' testimony.
Merchan adds ‘I think the witness was a little difficult to control.'
But he adds that he does think there were guardrails in place.
‘I’m not dismissing what you’re saying’ he tells Blanche, but he goes on 'I don't believe we're at the point where a mistrial is warranted.'
Merchan says he was surprised there were not more objections from the defense.
'In fact, at one point the court objected because there was no objection coming from the defense,' Merchan says.
He adds that a remedy is cross-examination.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:38:04 pm
MOL
13:28 Stormy Daniels returns to witness stand in hush money trial
Before testimony resumed with porn stara Stormy Daniels prosecutor Susan Hoffinger stepped out of the court to speak with her before the jury came back in.
Judge Merchan said that Hoffinger was speaking to Daniels to ensure she was ‘focused on the question and does not provide any unnecessary narrative.'
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 06:40:48 pm
13:28 Stormy Daniels returns to witness stand in hush money trial
Before testimony resumed with porn stara Stormy Daniels prosecutor Susan Hoffinger stepped out of the court to speak with her before the jury came back in.
Judge Merchan said that Hoffinger was speaking to Daniels to ensure she was ‘focused on the question and does not provide any unnecessary narrative.'
LOL... Sure, that's what Hoffinger told her...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:45:02 pm
Quote
a minute ago 2016 was 'probably my best year ever': Daniels
"That was probably my best year ever," Stormy Daniels said, answering a question by prosecutors about what her life was like in 2016.
Daniels said she enjoyed success with writing and directing and her horse being ranked No. 8 nationally.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 07, 2024, 06:51:34 pm
Stormy's testimony is an embarrassment for the entire Trump family!
So our choices for president is a past president that slept with a porn star or a president running for re-election that sniffs children and showers with his daughter. Neither is acceptable!!!
People wonder why this country is in the sad shape that it's in...because the current and past presidents represent the moral decay in this country. It is NOT ok!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:52:37 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Stormy Daniels 'didn't want to sign' statement denying tryst with Trump before 2018 Jimmy Kimmel appearance
Daniels testified that she "didn't want to sign" a written statement denying the sexual encounter with Trump, handed to her by her lawyer Keith Davidson before a 2018 TV appearance on ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Davidson has previously told jurors that he wrote the statement.
Quote
2 minutes ago ‘Chaos': Daniels reflects on backlash after WSJ published hush money story
Stormy Daniels said her life was turned upside down when the Wall Street Journal published a story about her $130,000 hush money payment.
Asked to describe the backlash, Daniels said it was "chaos."
"Suddenly I was front and foremost everywhere," she testified. "People on the front lawn."
She then said it "blew my cover" and affected her child.
"We were ostracized from her play groups," Daniels said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 06:54:03 pm
MOL
Quote
13:38 Jury shown Stormy Daniels settlement agreement from October 2016
Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger is taking Stormy Daniels through the settlement agreement she signed in October 2016.
The jury is seeing the documents which includes the names Peggy Peterson and David Dennison
It indicates Peterson is Stephanie Clifford and David Dennison is Donald Trump.
It’s dated October 28, 2016.
Quote
13:45 Stormy Daniels testifying about 2018 Wall Street Journal article on $130,000 payment
Stormy Daniels is testifying about the Wall Street Journal planning to write an article on her being paid$130,000 to keep quiet in early 2018.
She says she did not comment when asked for one. She noted that she had a non-disclosure agreement.
The jury is shown a statement denying a romantic affair that was signed by Stormy Daniels and dated January 10, 2018.
The article came out on January 12, 2018.
Daniels says it was ‘chaos.’ She says it ‘blew my cover,’ and they were ostracized.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 06:56:46 pm
I don't wonder why @libertybele The Eisenhower, Goldwater, Nixon and Reagan's are all dead. We're even down to electing a Reality TV Star.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 06:59:58 pm
People wonder why this country is in the sad shape that it's in...because the current and past presidents represent the moral decay in this country. It is NOT ok!
Tear up your voter registration card and move into a convent. You'll be happier than you've ever been.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:04:11 pm
3 minutes ago Stormy Daniels claims lawyer filed defamation suit against Trump over her objections By Ben Kochman
Stormy Daniels testified that her attorney filed a defamation suit on her behalf against Trump in 2018 over her objections.
"It seemed like a bad choice, not worth it," she told jurors.
Daniels lost the suit, and an appeals court has ordered her to pay $122,000 in Trump's legal bills.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:04:52 pm
a few seconds ago 'HORSEFACE': Daniels reads Trump's mean tweet directed at her to jury
Stormy Daniels read one of Donald Trump's Truth Social posts about her to the jury, where Trump claimed he did "NOTHING wrong in the 'Horseface' case."
The truth, from March 15, 2023, reads:
"I did NOTHING wrong in the 'Horseface' case. I see she showed up in New York today trying to drum up some publicity for herself. I haven't seen or spoken to her since I took a picture with her on a golf course, in full golf gear including a hat, close to 18 years ago. She knows nothing about me other than her conman lawyer, [Michael] Avanatti, and convicted liar and felon, jailbird Michael Cohen, may have schemed up. Never had an affair with her, just another false acquisition by a SleazeBag. Witch Hunt!"
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:06:06 pm
a few seconds ago Daniels apologizes to court reporter for talking too fast
During a quick sidebar before cross-examination, Stormy Daniels apologized to the court reporter for talking to fast.
"Is that better? I talked slower for you," Daniels told the court reporter.
She then added, "I'm sorry."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 07, 2024, 07:06:19 pm
Stormy's testimony is an embarrassment for the entire Trump family!
So our choices for president is a past president that slept with a porn star or a president running for re-election that sniffs children and showers with his daughter. Neither is acceptable!!!
People wonder why this country is in the sad shape that it's in...because the current and past presidents represent the moral decay in this country. It is NOT ok!
Do you have ANY proof that Trump ever slept with Stormy Daniels (or whatever her real name is) If so , I would love to see it. Do you remember Roy Moore?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 07:07:24 pm
This will be the new mantra. Fox is run by Paul Ryan.
But still dominated by pro-Trump on air talent. Get back with me when the likes of Hannity, Gutfeld, Ingraham, and Watters concur or change direction
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:07:43 pm
MOL
Quote
13:56 Move to mistrial serves as a reminder of the wild Stormy Daniels morning testimony
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside court:
The mistrial move was a reminder of just how wild Stormy Daniels' testimony was this morning.
Judge, court reporter and prosecutor all had to ask her to slow down at times. And Judge Juan Merchan told her several times to answer only the questions she was asked as she embarked on asides and diversions.
Most notably, she seemed to have no recollection of how she ended up half undressed on the bed, something very different to the account of a consensual affair she was trying to sell in 2016.
So it was no surprise that the defense moved for a mistrial, on the grounds that her testimony would poison the jury againt their client. This is what defenses do. And it was no real surprise either that Judge Juan Merchan said there insufficient grounds for a mistrial.
Quote
13:57 From inside the court: Is Trump asleep?
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside court:
Trump is leaning back in his seat. Eyes closed. So is he asleep?
He scratches his neck. Eyes still closed.
He looks comfortable and it is warm in the courtroom.
He opens his eyes a crack. And then closes them again.
He leans his head to the left, and then back to the right, all without opening his eyes.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:08:36 pm
2 minutes ago Prosecutors end questioning of Stormy Daniels, cross-examination begins By Ben Kochman
Prosecutors are finished questioning Stormy Daniels.
Trump lawyer Susan Necheles is now cross-examining her.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on May 07, 2024, 07:08:59 pm
Do you have ANY proof that Trump ever slept with Stormy Daniels (or whatever her real name is) If so , I would love to see it. Do you remember Roy Moore?
We have no solid evidence that he slept with Stormy. But I have a hunch that he did. It may not be exactly as she described. But Even if he did, that is not a crime.
Do you have any proof that Biden showered with his daughter?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:13:27 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Daniels, Trump attorney trading jabs on cross-examination
Stormy Daniels seems agitated by questions from Donald Trump’s attorney Susan Necheles early on in cross-examination.
Her tone has changed slightly as she answers questions in a matter-of-fact way, sometimes punchy at a louder volume, when speaking with Necheles.
Meanwhile, Trump appears to be reclined back in his seat sitting between Emil Bove and Todd Blanche.
Quote
3 minutes ago Daniels admits she hates Donald Trump: testimony
Stormy Daniels was asked by Donald Trump's attorney Susan Necheles if she hated Trump.
"Am I correct that you hate President Trump?" Necheles asked.
Daniels responded with a shrap "yes."
She then added: “I want him to be held accountable."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 07, 2024, 07:13:50 pm
We have no solid evidence that he slept with Stormy. But I have a hunch that he did. It may not be exactly as she described. But Even if he did, that is not a crime.
Do you have any proof that Biden showered with his daughter?
Your hunches aren't worth anything in a courtroom. At least shouldn't be.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:14:17 pm
Quote
“I want him to be held accountable."
Accountable for what?...what crime did he commit?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 07, 2024, 07:18:29 pm
I'm sick to DEATH of this "he said/she said crap being used in attempts to destroy people in the courts! Couldn't care less who the players are!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on May 07, 2024, 07:19:30 pm
Do you have ANY proof that Trump ever slept with Stormy Daniels (or whatever her real name is) If so , I would love to see it. Do you remember Roy Moore?
Occam's Razor.
Billionaires don't pay out money to people who make false claims, they destroy them in court instead.
There's been no testimony so far that indicates Stormy was seeking money from Trump. It was Trump's fixers that approached her to buy her story to bury it. Exactly how Pecker testified he operates.
The only thing she did was try to get out of her NDA with him because when he ran for President because it was a potential gold mine worth far more than he paid "for her story".
If it hasn't been published, how does she know they sleep in separate bedrooms? And if they don't, that would be easy to show.
All the evidence so far shows that Trump approached her during all their encounters. She wasn't seeking him out.
And don't forget, she's not the only one.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:25:08 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Stormy Daniels explains why she called Trump an 'orange turd' in tweet to jurors
Stormy Daniels said she called Donald Trump an "orange turd" — simply "because he made fun of her first."
The juror is being shown a tweet by Daniels from November 9, 2022.
🇺🇸 The Briefing Room 🇺🇸 🇮🇱
Stormy Daniels @StormyDaniels · Nov 9, 2022 I don't owe him shit and I'll never give that orange turd a dime 😂
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 07, 2024, 07:26:43 pm
Billionaires don't pay out money to people who make false claims, they destroy them in court instead.
There's been no testimony so far that indicates Stormy was seeking money from Trump. It was Trump's fixers that approached her to buy her story to bury it. Exactly how Pecker testified he operates.
The only thing she did was try to get out of her NDA with him because when he ran for President because it was a potential gold mine worth far more than he paid "for her story".
If it hasn't been published, how does she know they sleep in separate bedrooms? And if they don't, that would be easy to show.
All the evidence so far shows that Trump approached her during all their encounters. She wasn't seeking him out.
And don't forget, she's not the only one.
And exactly NONE of that is proof of ANYTHING!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:27:07 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:29:59 pm
MOH
Quote
14:19 Stormy Daniels defensive in cross-examination
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside court:
The cross examination is riveting stuff.
Susan Necheles opened up by asking Stormy Daniels whether she had rehearsed for this moment with prosecution lawyers.
Daniels did not like that line of questioning and bristled.
She sat up straight, jutting her jaw to one side in defiant fashion, as she tried to hit the questions straight back at the questioner.
That set the tone for an increasingly bad tempered encounter as the defense tries to make out that she is a money-grabbing chancer.
Quote
14:16 Stormy Daniels is being questioned about having to pay Donald Trump legal fees
There has been a back and forth exchange between defense lawyer Susan Necheles and Stormy Daniels over Daniels being ordered to pay Donald Trump legal fees.
Daniels is being shown a series of tweets she made about Trump.
Necheles points out that Daniels also made fun of Trump's looks.
'He made fun of me first,' Daniels says.
On the screen is a tweet from Daniels where she wrote 'I don't owe him s**t and I'll never give that orange turd a dime'
The fees owed are in connection to Daniels' failed defamation lawsuit against Trump.
When Necheles questions whether Trump won the case, Daniels counters 'he prevailed, I was not found to have lost.'
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 07:33:20 pm
I'm sick to DEATH of this "he said/she said crap being used in attempts to destroy people in the courts! Couldn't care less who the players are!
That's a two way street. Didn't Trump try to destroy her over her trying to get out of the NDA "for her story"? Trump has a long trail of wreckage of people he's destroyed via lies. If she was telling the truth and Trump was calling her a liar, who holds the higher moral ground?
Now, I'm not suggesting that this farce of a trial involves any actual crime on Trump's part. It is setting a terrible legal precedence.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 07, 2024, 07:34:26 pm
Quote
When Necheles questions whether Trump won the case, Daniels counters 'he prevailed, I was not found to have lost.'
LOL! You can't make this stuff up!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 07:35:36 pm
That's a two way street. Didn't Trump try to destroy her over her trying to get out of the NDA "for her story"? Trump has a long trail of wreckage of people he's destroyed via lies. If she was telling the truth and Trump was calling her a liar, who holds the higher moral ground?
Now, I'm not suggesting that this farce of a trial involves any actual crime on Trump's part. It is setting a terrible legal precedence.
On that point I fully agree! Everyone involved with the prosecution of this should be disbarred with prejudice!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 07:38:07 pm
To my knowledge that case was only about the NDA being valid or not, not the contents of it or if she was telling the truth or not. It was simply confirmed to be a binding NDA.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 07:38:16 pm
What started out as a Kangaroo Court has turned into a farce of a 3-ring circus.
The judical entities in NY have set back jurisprudence a 1000 years.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:38:57 pm
Greta Van Susteren @greta · 1h The judge thinks he can “fix” the outrageous prejudicial testimony elicited by the prosecutor from Story Daniels w/limiting instruction to the jury..ah..Juries can not UNHEAR what they just heard just because judge tells them to
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 07, 2024, 07:39:54 pm
Isn't that like saying "some people say Cruz's father killed Kennedy"? He's saying it but not saying it...
That's what the judge just did.
It's wrong period.
Which is what I've been shouting here for a LONG time!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 07:41:18 pm
MOL 14:19 Stormy Daniels is up for a fight
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside court:
The cross examination is riveting stuff.
Susan Necheles opened up by asking Stormy Daniels whether she had rehearsed for this moment with prosecution lawyers.
Daniels did not like that line of questioning and bristled.
She sat up straight, jutting her jaw to one side in defiant fashion, as she tried to hit the questions straight back at the questioner.
That set the tone for an increasingly bad tempered encounter as the defense tries to make out that she is a money-grabbing chancer.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: banddag on May 07, 2024, 07:43:23 pm
It does not take a body language expert to know Melania and Trump have not touched each other in years. White house staff said they slept in separate beds.
It is not even a secret anymore that Melania has a alleged relationship with Hank Siemers, head of security at Tiffany's for years now. He moved into an apt in the Trump Tower Donald knows about him and does not care. His marriage to Melania is one of convenience.
One day I expect many more women will come out of the woodwork that had sexual relations with Trump..or maybe not. Would you want to let it be known you had sex with Trump and become another Lewinski joke?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 07:43:57 pm
It does not take a body language expert to know Melania and Trump have not touched each other in years. White house staff said they slept in separate beds.
It is not even a secret anymore that Melania has a relationship with Hank Siemers, head of security at Tiffany's for years now. He moved into an apt in the Trump Tower 3-4 year ago. Donald knows about him and does not care. His marriage to Melania is one of convenience.
One day I expect many more women will come out of the woodwork that had sexual relations with Trump..or maybe not. Would you want to let it be known you had sex with Trump and become another Lewinski joke?
And Biden likely showered and slept with his daughter, but your prefer to bring this up? (Which none of this I had heard) I was about 90% sure you were a troll. Now I am at a 100.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 07:48:13 pm
It does not take a body language expert to know Melania and Trump have not touched each other in years. White house staff said they slept in separate beds.
It is not even a secret anymore that Melania has a relationship with Hank Siemers, head of security at Tiffany's for years now. He moved into an apt in the Trump Tower 3-4 year ago. Donald knows about him and does not care. His marriage to Melania is one of convenience.
One day I expect many more women will come out of the woodwork that had sexual relations with Trump..or maybe not. Would you want to let it be known you had sex with Trump and become another Lewinski joke?
It's none of your business troll!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 07:49:12 pm
Why every person needs to do research from all sides, left, middle and right. Never believe anything from the far left or far right without doing your own research . Both sides mislead and misinform and leave out pertinent information.
If a person only receives their info from the far left or far right they eventually become misinformed.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 08:08:37 pm
15:01 Court is taking a short break
Stormy Daniels cross-examination is paused for short break.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 07, 2024, 08:10:11 pm
Do you have ANY proof that Trump ever slept with Stormy Daniels (or whatever her real name is) If so , I would love to see it. Do you remember Roy Moore?
Yes, I remember Roy Moore.
I thought it had been proven awhile ago, that Trump did sleep with her???
Obviously not.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 07, 2024, 08:11:15 pm
Why every person needs to do research from all sides, left, middle and right. Never believe anything from the far left or far right without doing your own research . Both sides mislead and misinform and leave out pertinent information.
If a person only receives their info from the far left or far right they eventually become misinformed.
Sounds like you researched that claim. Do you care to share that here?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 08:12:22 pm
Why every person needs to do research from all sides, left, middle and right. Never believe anything from the far left or far right without doing your own research . Both sides mislead and misinform and leave out pertinent information.
If a person only receives their info from the far left or far right they eventually become misinformed.
I watch and read plenty of varying POV's, and still haven't seen that. What's your source? du?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 08:15:49 pm
a few seconds ago 'Very well': Trump responds when asked how trial day is going By Kyle Schnitzer
When asked by a pool reporter how the trial is going Tuesday, Donald Trump said "very well."
"Mr. Trump, how's it going in there?" a reporter shouted in the hallway.
The former president held his right hand to his mouth, saying, "Very well."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 07, 2024, 08:16:22 pm
I thought it had been proven awhile ago, that Trump did sleep with her???
Obviously not.
A very dear friend of mine left TBR because she was positive Moore was guilty, despite the lack of any evidence. She fought like hell with other members for months. Makes me sad that she would not budge and left us.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 08:22:06 pm
Why every person needs to do research from all sides, left, middle and right. Never believe anything from the far left or far right without doing your own research . Both sides mislead and misinform and leave out pertinent information.
If a person only receives their info from the far left or far right they eventually become misinformed.
Says the guy who has posted numerous misinformed "facts" while claiming everyone else is misinformed due to the "lack of research"... The irony is too much.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 07, 2024, 08:23:01 pm
Says the guy who has posted numerous misinformed "facts" while claiming everyone else is misinformed due to the "lack of research"... The irony is too much.
And over 20 minutes later has failed to provide one singular citation to his claims. I've already toasted him on climate change and ECON matters. Anyone else want a turn?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: the OlLine Rebel on May 07, 2024, 08:26:12 pm
Do you have ANY proof that Trump ever slept with Stormy Daniels (or whatever her real name is) If so , I would love to see it. Do you remember Roy Moore?
Roy Moore is not in the same league as Trump as a man.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 08:27:26 pm
Truth and integrity are foreign to her. Doesn't think normal people care about any of that. That you must be a priest or nun to care about those things.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 07, 2024, 08:28:19 pm
Truth and integrity are foreign to her. Doesn't think normal people care about any of that. That you must be a priest or nun to care about those things.
This woman has zero redeeming qualities. She makes strippers, porn stars, and hookers look like Mother Teresa.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on May 07, 2024, 08:30:01 pm
When I was about 12yo I wanted to be a nun...but then I discovered boys... :silly:
Boy, can I relate
I was the same age when my dad told the local priest that he would be interested in seeing me go in to the priesthood. I turned 58 years old next month and I still don’t know where my dad got that idea from
But then I discovered girls
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 08:30:06 pm
And over 20 minutes later has failed to provide one singular citation to his claims. I've already toasted him on climate change and ECON matters. Anyone else want a turn?
I have to agree
I’m a news junkie so I’ll Watch Fox News when I can just as much as I watch MSNBC when I can. I believe you should get your sources of information beyond just sources that agree with one’s worldview
But I’ve never heard that story till now
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: banddag on May 07, 2024, 08:32:06 pm
And over 20 minutes later has failed to provide one singular citation to his claims. I've already toasted him on climate change and ECON matters. Anyone else want a turn?
Google "Hank Siemers Melania" Lots of links and sources-allegations and rumors of course.
Here is one from 2016. Many are from 2016/2017
Melania Trump will make a great First Lady. | Page 168
Politics.ie https://politics.ie › Regional Discussion › US Politics Feb 29, 2016 — Melania Trump is rumored to be having a longtime affair with Trump Tower employee Hank Siemers. www.google.com.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 08:32:59 pm
3 minutes ago Trump trial ends with Stormy Daniels still on the stand
Stormy Daniels will return to the witness stand Thursday, as the judge just called it a day for Trump's hush money trial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on May 07, 2024, 08:36:06 pm
There was one article on BBC, but a one person silly account.
Are you for real?
You also have to read whatever he cites because it often doesn't say what he said it says... Oops...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 07, 2024, 08:42:15 pm
NY v. Trump: Mayor Adams says Rikers Island is 'prepared' if Trump is sentenced to jail 'Prepared for whatever comes on Rikers Island,' Mayor Adams said By Emma Colton Fox News Published May 7, 2024 1:29pm EDT
New York City's Rikers Island is prepared if former President Donald Trump is ordered to serve time in jail amid his unprecedented trial in Manhattan, Mayor Eric Adams said Tuesday.
"Our amazing commissioner … is prepared for whatever comes on Rikers Island," Adams told the media Tuesday when asked if Rikers, New York City's largest prison, is prepared if Trump is ordered to jail for violating a gag order imposed during the trial.
"I'm pretty sure [the Department of Corrections commissioner] would be prepared to manage and deal with the situation. As you see what's happening with Harvey Weinstein, we have to just you know, in this business, particularly around law enforcement, we have to adjust whatever comes our way," he continued.
"We don't want to deal with a hypothetical, but they're professionals that will be ready."
more https://www.foxnews.com/politics/mayor-adams-says-rikers-island-prepared-trump-sentenced-jail
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 07, 2024, 08:43:01 pm
It does not take a body language expert to know Melania and Trump have not touched each other in years. White house staff said they slept in separate beds.
It is not even a secret anymore that Melania has a alleged relationship with Hank Siemers, head of security at Tiffany's for years now. He moved into an apt in the Trump Tower Donald knows about him and does not care. His marriage to Melania is one of convenience.
One day I expect many more women will come out of the woodwork that had sexual relations with Trump..or maybe not. Would you want to let it be known you had sex with Trump and become another Lewinski joke?
??? What does Trump's relationship with his wife have to do with anything???? So they sleep in different beds? Many happy couples to do for various reasons.
???? First I've heard of Melania having an affair and again what does that have to do with this case???
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 08:43:54 pm
Slept with over 50 'just a different hairdos' (I loved em, everyone) and caught a few STD's but what separates me from Trump is I'm willing to admit it and I'm not conning anyone to vote for me for 'Christian of the Year'.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 08:44:10 pm
Law debasement, not law enforcement...
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 07, 2024, 08:48:37 pm
And over 20 minutes later has failed to provide one singular citation to his claims. I've already toasted him on climate change and ECON matters. Anyone else want a turn?
And I asked. I think you did too.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 08:51:40 pm
Slept with over 50 'just a different hairdos' (I loved em, everyone) and caught a few STD's but what separates me from Trump is I'm willing to admit it and I'm not conning anyone to vote for me for 'Christian of the Year'.
The only STD I ever caught was when I was in the army.
I was 18 years old and went off base for the first time. And it was payday
A very volatile cocktail
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: LMAO on May 07, 2024, 09:00:29 pm
Google "Hank Siemers Melania" Lots of links and sources-allegations and rumors of course.
Here is one from 2016. Many are from 2016/2017
Melania Trump will make a great First Lady. | Page 168
Politics.ie https://politics.ie › Regional Discussion › US Politics Feb 29, 2016 — Melania Trump is rumored to be having a longtime affair with Trump Tower employee Hank Siemers. www.google.com.
@banddag again -- what does any of what you are claiming have to do with this case????
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 07, 2024, 09:19:05 pm
@banddag again -- what does any of what you are claiming have to do with this case????
I'm still trying to figure out what the Prosecution witnesses have to do with this case. I am not seeing a reason to call Clifford in the first place other than to insert salacious accusations into this trial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 07, 2024, 09:43:47 pm
I'm still trying to figure out what the Prosecution witnesses have to do with this case. I am not seeing a reason to call Clifford in the first place other than to insert salacious accusations into this trial.
http://youtu.be/fwgJgTL5JmE
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: rustynail on May 07, 2024, 09:45:39 pm
A judge in Florida who is overseeing the DOJ’s criminal prosecution of Trump in their classified documents case has just dealt a huge blow to Biden’s corrupt Justice Department.
Judge Aileen Cannon has just postponed Trump’s trial indefinitely. The trial was supposed to start later this month.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 07, 2024, 10:06:24 pm
A judge in Florida who is overseeing the DOJ’s criminal prosecution of Trump in their classified documents case has just dealt a huge blow to Biden’s corrupt Justice Department.
Judge Aileen Cannon has just postponed Trump’s trial indefinitely. The trial was supposed to start later this month.
Saw that report too, but I think it appears only to be a postponement because of conflict with other trials. That's at least what I thought I heard.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 07, 2024, 10:14:09 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on May 07, 2024, 10:36:12 pm
The prosecutor who questioned Stormy Daniels in court today donated $500 to Joe Biden in 2020, as well as $900 to ActBlue.
You can add that conflict of interest to the other prosecutor who was #3 at Biden’s DOJ and worked for the DNC, the judge who also donated to Biden, and the judge’s daughter raising millions of dollars for Democrats off the indictment. https://twitter.com/greg_price11/status/1787973175206150159
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 07, 2024, 10:41:28 pm
Saw that report too, but I think it appears only to be a postponement because of conflict with other trials. That's at least what I thought I heard.
This is the case where Smith just admitted the evidence was mishandled and tainted, and where the Judge un-redacted a bunch of stuff in the past couple of weeks. Smith is flailing on this one, all of a sudden.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Cyber Liberty on May 07, 2024, 11:24:11 pm
Why every person needs to do research from all sides, left, middle and right. Never believe anything from the far left or far right without doing your own research . Both sides mislead and misinform and leave out pertinent information.
If a person only receives their info from the far left or far right they eventually become misinformed.
So where is your research?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 08, 2024, 04:54:36 am
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 08, 2024, 05:15:13 am
Greg Jarrett on Stormy Daniels' Testimony: "She self-destructed... None of what she had to say was relevant to any of the charges against Donald Trump... Prosecutors put her on the stand to vilify Trump with a salacious story, irrelevant, highly prejudicial, probative of nothing and that is the legal standard that makes her testimony inadmissible and any fair judge would not have allowed it" (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 08, 2024, 05:33:38 am
Quote
Judge allows Stormy Daniels to give irrelevant, salacious testimony just to humiliate Trump NY Post, May 7, 2024, Jonathan Turley
Before the start of the Manhattan prosecution of former president Donald Trump, I characterized the case of District Attorney Alvin Bragg as based on a type of obscenity standard.
In a 1984 pornography case, Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart wrote “I shall not today attempt further to define [obscenity]. . . . But I know it when I see it.”
Bragg has refused to clearly define the crime that Trump was seeking to conceal when payments for a non-disclosure agreement was listed as a legal expense.
We would just know it when we saw it at trial.
We are still waiting, but this week, Bragg seems to be prosecuting an actual obscenity case.
The prosecution fought with Trump’s defense counsel to not only call porn star Stormy Daniels to the stand, but to ask her for lurid details on her alleged tryst with Trump.
The only assurance that they would make to Judge Juan Merchan was that they would “not go into details of genitalia.”
For Merchan, who has largely ruled against Trump on such motions, that was enough.
He allowed the prosecutors to get into the details of the affair despite the immateriality of the evidence to any criminal theory.
Neither the NDA nor the payment to Daniels is being contested.
It is also uncontested that Trump wanted to pay to get the story (and other stories, including untrue allegations) from being published.
The value of the testimony was entirely sensational and gratuitous, yet Merchan was fine with humiliating Trump.
Daniels’ testimony was a dumpster fire in the courtroom.
The most maddening moment for the defense came at the lunch break when Merchan stated, “I agree that it would have been better if some of these things had been left unsaid.”
He then denied a motion for a mistrial basis on the testimony and blamed the defense for not objecting more.
That, of course, ignores the standing objection of the defense to Daniels even appearing, and specific objections to the broad scope allowed by the court.
This is precisely what the defense said would happen when the prosecutors only agreed to avoid “genitalia.”
Even if he was adamant in allowing her, Merchan could have imposed a much more limited scope for her testimony.
He could also have enforced the limits that he did place on the testimony when it was being ignored by both the prosecutors and the witness.
Merchan said that he is considering a limiting instruction for the jury to ignore aspects of the testimony.
But that is little comfort for the defendant.
The court was told that this would happen, it happened, and now the court wants to ask the jury to pretend that it did not happen.
Merchan knows that there is no way for the jury to unhear the testimony.
More importantly, the prosecution knew that from the outset.
Daniels appeared eager to share the stories for the same reason that she was eager to sell her story. While she said that she “hates” Trump and wants him “held accountable,” Daniels is no victim.
She had an alleged tryst with Trump and then sought to cash in on story.
It is a standard form of extortion of celebrities.
She later sought to cash in on the notoriety by appearing in strip clubs as part of a “Make America Horny Again” tour.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 08, 2024, 06:16:23 am
CNN Panelist on the cross examination of Stormy Daniels: “Her responses were disastrous.. ‘Do you hate Donald Trump?’.. ‘Yes’ — of course she does… When the witness hates the person whose liberty is at stake, that’s a big damn deal and she’s putting out Tweets fantasizing about him being in jail.. That really undermines the credibility.”. (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on May 08, 2024, 11:46:18 am
Doug Powers @ThePowersThatBe It’s funny when Bill Clinton fans suddenly get the marital infidelity vapors. (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GM_qp2IWEAEiqBs?format=jpg&name=360x360) 2:01 PM · May 7, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 08, 2024, 02:21:52 pm
Greg Jarrett on Stormy Daniels' Testimony: "She self-destructed... None of what she had to say was relevant to any of the charges against Donald Trump... Prosecutors put her on the stand to vilify Trump with a salacious story, irrelevant, highly prejudicial, probative of nothing and that is the legal standard that makes her testimony inadmissible and any fair judge would not have allowed it" (Video)
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 08, 2024, 02:44:13 pm
I don't think she "self-destructed". She did exactly what the prosecutors wanted her to. The prosecutors are not pursuing the law, they're pursuing a political objective.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Bigun on May 08, 2024, 02:52:13 pm
I don't think she "self-destructed". She did exactly what the prosecutors wanted her to. The prosecutors are not pursuing the law, they're pursuing a political objective.
:bingo:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Hoodat on May 09, 2024, 02:07:21 am
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 01:37:31 pm
Day 14
29 minutes ago Photographers banned from taking Trump's picture inside courtroom By Kyle Schnitzer
Credentialed photographers are no longer allowed to take photos of Donald Trump inside the courtroom after a photographer violated one of the court's rules, according to a pool report.
A court officer noticed pool photographers in the hallway pen and said Justice Juan Merchan is no longer allowing still photography in the courtroom for the remainder of the trial.
The officer said a member of the pool — a rotating cast of photographers from several outlets each day — violated the court order by taking a photograph of Trump from the aisle inside the courtroom while walking into the well.
Photographers are permitted to take photos from inside the well only.
As of now, there will no longer be any photos of Trump appearing at his defense table inside the courtroom.
Only photos of when the former president enters and exits the courtroom will be permitted.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 01:38:53 pm
Daniels's anticipated testimony draws crowded courthouse
The anticipated resumption of the cross-examination of Stormy Daniels brought long lines outside the Manhattan courthouse early Thursday, with a host of press and members of the public trying to get an inside look of the proceedings.
There are a few coveted seats in the courtroom reserved for members of the public to observe the trial.
A member of the public hoping to get inside said those first in line arrived outside the courthouse before 5 a.m. Officers appeared to close off the line to get inside at about 7:30 a.m. this morning for both the press and public.
More press are also inside the overflow room of the courthouse and there appears to be fewer seats allowed for the public than on other days of the trial.
— Lauren Sforza
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 01:41:31 pm
6 minutes ago Stormy Daniels sworn in; testimony resumes By Ben Kochman
Stormy Daniels has walked back into the courtroom to resume her testimony.
She's wearing the same hooded black robe she wore Tuesday, this time over a forest green dress.
Her blond hair trails down to her shoulders.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 01:49:37 pm
Prosecutors struggling to tie Trump to records falsification scheme By Ashley Oliver May 9, 2024 8:08 am
Alvin Bragg is hoping to convince a jury that former President Donald Trump committed felonies by allegedly falsifying business records, but to do that, the Manhattan district attorney must prove Trump acted with intent.
Over the last three weeks, prosecutors have called upon witnesses to deliver, at times, salacious testimony about Trump, and they have entered dozens of records into evidence. However, they have struggled to tie Trump directly to what Bragg, an elected Democrat, claims was a felonious payment scheme.
Tuesday marked the most dramatic day of witness testimony in the trial thus far after porn star Stormy Daniels took the witness stand and rehashed graphic details about an alleged sexual encounter she had with Trump in 2006.
The testimony was captivating for jurors and the public and provided color to her story, which Trump’s ex-attorney Michael Cohen paid $130,000 in 2016 to hide. However, some critics found it lacked substance.
Jonathan Turley, a professor at George Washington University Law School, called Daniels’s testimony a “dumpster fire.”
more https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/2997186/prosecutors-struggling-tie-trump-records-falsification-scheme/
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 01:51:33 pm
a minute ago Cagey Stormy Daniels battling with Trump attorney over money questions
Trump attorney Susan Necheles is pressing a cagey Stormy Daniels about if she was looking for cash from Trump to sell her story.
Nechles' questions are picking up from where she left off Tuesday, which at times, created a tense exchange between the pair.
Daniels said that "numerous people" wanted to publish her story, but ultimately wanted to get the truth out.
“I was asking to sell my story to publications to get the truth out," Daniels testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 02:01:37 pm
3 minutes ago Stormy Daniels much calmer, more relaxed and speaking more slowly today so far By Ben Kochman
As Trump's lawyer Necheles continues to grill her about the hush money payment on cross-examination, Daniels' demeanor is far more relaxed compared to yesterday.
From her seat on the witness stand, she's speaking far more slowly and clearly than she did when she detailed her alleged tryst with Trump when questioned by prosecutors.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 02:05:27 pm
a few seconds ago Daniels denies berating her attorney as jurors hear taped called with Michael Cohen By Kyle Schnitzer
A juicy phone conversation between Stormy Daniels' attorney Keith Davidson and Michael Cohen was played in front of the jury — where Davidson said that Daniels berated him and wanted money "more than anything," but Daniels denied berating her attorney.
The taped April 4, 2018 phone call between the attorneys featured multiple expletives, with Davidson claiming that Daniels was yelling and screaming at him while calling him a "p---y."
“She wanted this money more than you can ever imagine. I remember hearing her on the phone saying, you f--ing Keith Davidson. You better settle this God damn story,” Davidson said on the recording.
He added that Daniels allegedly said that if Trump lost the election "we lose all f--king leverage this case is worth zero."
Daniels denied berating Davidson, however.
"No I did not actually, I never yelled at Keith Davidson," she testified. "It sounds like a threat from Keith Davidson."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 02:13:32 pm
Quote
a minute ago Daniels says 'no one' would want to 'publicly' admit to having sex with Trump
Stormy Daniels testified that "no one" would want to publicly admit they had sex with Donald Trump — as Trump's attorney peppers her with questions about Trump's "brand."
Susan Necheles, Trump's attorney, asked Daniels about Trump having a brand, which drew a hearty laugh from Daniels, who later admitted that he does have a brand.
Daniels said she "wouldn't know" if Trump was concerned about protecting his brand and image, and when asked about why someone would publicly tell people about her alleged romp, she held another laugh.
"No one would want to publicly say that," Daniels responded.
Quote
Daniels: I 'hated' the name of my 'Make America Horny Again' strip club tour
Stormy Daniels said just now that she profited from a nationwide strip club tour dubbed "Make America Horny Again" after news of her alleged hookup with Trump emerged, but said she "hated" the tour's name and that it wasn't her idea.
"I did not name that tour," she told jurors. "That’s what a club owner in North Carolina called it."
I" never used that tagline, I hated it," she said.
She added that she was already stripping at those clubs, and performing basically the same routine as she's been doing in various forms since she was 21 years old.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 02:23:36 pm
3 min(s) ago Trump attorney presses Stormy Daniels on signing statement denying affair
Stormy Daniels was questioned in court Thursday during cross-examination about a statement she released denying the encounter between her and Donald Trump.
Trump lawyer Susan Necheles read parts of the statement, specifically the portions denying Daniels had sex with Trump. Daniels said she did not write the statement, but signed it.
Necheles pointed to another statement where Daniels denied having a sexual relationship with Trump. One part reads, “I’m denying this affair because it never happened.”
Daniels confirmed that Cohen was pushing for her to sign the statement.
Fox News' Maria Parnich contributed to this report.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 02:34:44 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Stormy Daniels now being asked if she can speak with 'dead people'
Things are getting spooky in Trump's hush money trial as Stormy Daniels is being asked questions about whether she believes she can speak with "dead people."
Trump attorney's questions stems from Daniels' belief in ghosts. She testified that she once lived in a haunted house in New Orleans.
Daniels is a self-proclaimed ghost hunter.
Quote
6 minutes ago Daniels: I 'absolutely' meant to call Trump an 'orange turd' on social media By Ben Kochman
Jurors were just shown a March post on X in which he fired back at a commenter calling her a "human toilet" by writing "Exactly: Making me the best person to flush the orange turd down."
When asked who she meant by "orange turd," Daniels did not hestitate.
"Oh, I absolutely meant Donald Trump," she quipped.
Stormy is a disgusting whore. There's just no other way to describe her (nicely).
This revelation that this cut throat whore now sees and talks to dead people? Just add mental competency as about the 5th issue to dismiss anythibg this witness says,
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 02:43:29 pm
a minute ago Daniels: If having sex with Trump was fiction, I'd make it 'a lot better'
Stormy Daniels said that if he story about having sex with Donald Trump was untrue, she would have "written it to be a lot better."
Daniels is being asked about her porn star career by Susan Necheles with Daniels testifying she has appeared and written in more than 200 sex films.
Trump's attorney pressed Daniels about creating fictional storylines and making ""phony stories about sex" appeal to a wider audience, which drew a surprising reaction from Daniels.
"Wow," Daniels exclaimed.
She added that "the sex in those films is very real like what happened to me in that room," referring to the time she and Trump slept together at a Lake Tahoe hotel.
She then took a dig at Trump about this sexual experience, which she had testified didn't last long and that the former president didn't use a condom.
"If that story was untrue, I would have written it to be a lot better," Daniels testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 02:45:32 pm
Stormy Daniels sold Trump story for nearly $1 million, says she didn't receive all of it
Stormy Daniels admitted in court Thursday to receiving nearly $1 million for her story regarding an alleged affair with Donald Trump.
Under cross-examination, Daniels was asked by Trump lawyer Susan Necheles whether she wanted to publicly say she had sex with Trump. Daniels responded, “No, no one would ever want to publicly say that."
When pressed again bout making money, Stormy says she did a piece with 60 Minutes for free.
Daniels confirmed she sold her life story for $800K for the book. When Necheles said Daniels was paid $930K for selling her story, Daniels said she didn’t receive the $800K.
Asked about the book, Daniels said the story started when she was two, but she assumed people would read the part about Trump first.
Necheles also asked about the “Make America Horny Tour,” to which Daniels responded, “I did not name that tour."
Daniels also said in court Thursday that she only received a portion of the $130K payment in return for signing the NDA. Posted by Kyle Morris Fox News
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:05:05 pm
09:59 Trump lawyer presses Stormy Daniels over the meaning of 'dinner' from her 2006 Trump encounter
Trump’s lawyer is attempting to poke holes in Stormy Daniels’ story about Trump in 2006 where he had invited her over for dinner.
This is the alleged encounter where Daniels and Trump had sex.
Susan Necheles brings up Daniels’ interview in 2018 in which she says she went for dinner.
There is a back and forth over what dinner meant.
Daniels says they spent dinner time in the room, but they never actually ate.
Necheles is going through exact wording in Daniels' previous retelling of the story and argues there have been inconsistencies.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:05:49 pm
Sorry..for some reason the reporting from inside the courtroom is very slow today..
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:13:43 pm
4 minutes ago Daniels: Yes I had 'dinnertime' convo with Trump, 'but we never got food'
The first-ever criminal trial of a U.S. president has spent the last 15 minutes probing this question: Did Stormy Daniels receive dinner when she visited Trump's hotel room in 2006?
Daniels testified that she did not receive dinner after Trump invited her to his Lake Tahoe hotel suite — and that Trump propositioned her with sex instead.
But Trump's attorney Susan Necheles confronted Daniels with her 2011 interview with InTouch magazine that they talked "over dinner."
Daniels said Thursday that "It was dinner, it was dinner time, but I maintain that I didn’t see any food."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:14:07 pm
3 minutes ago 'Fed up' Rick Scott speaks outside courthouse after sitting in on trial
Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) spoke just now to reporters outside the courthouse after accompanying Trump to court and sitting behind him in the courtroom:
"I'm fed up," Scott said. "This is just simply, they don't want this guy on the ballot. They're trying everything they can because they can't beat him.
"They're trying to prosecute him for how something was recorded, that's all it is. This is pure political persecution."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:20:15 pm
3 minutes ago Daniels 'wasn't expecting' to see Trump in his underwear: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Stormy Daniels was asked by Trump attorney Susan Necheles that since she's seen naked men and women in adult films all the time, why would it be surprising to her to see a man in boxer shorts and a T-shirt to the point where she felt so lightheaded that she was going to faint.
Daniels said she was still surprised to see Trump standing in his underwear.
"If I came out of the bathroom and saw an older man in his underwear that I wasn't expecting to see there, yeah," Daniels testified.
She then pointed at Trump -- who is paying rapt attention to her testimony -- and added that she sees her husband naked all the time, but that if she left her bathroom at home and saw Trump today lying half-naked on her bed, she would be alarmed.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:27:47 pm
2 minutes ago Defiant Stormy Daniels sticks to her story about sexual tryst with Trump
Stormy Daniels is sticking to her story about having sex with Donald Trump -- despite his lawyer's theatric bids to get her to admit she's lying.
"You made all this up right?" Trump attorney Susan Necheles asked at one point
"No," Daniels shot back.
"You story has completely changed hasn’t it?" Necheles asked later, raising her voice
"No!" Daniels replied.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:28:32 pm
11:27 AMMay 9, 2024 - rrahman Trump attorney zeroes in on consent
In an attempt to discredit Daniels’s testimony, Necheles is pointing to past articles where Daniels said or implied that her alleged sexual encounter with Trump was consensual.
The Trump attorney pointed to interviews where Daniels said that the “worst thing” Trump did was “lie” about getting her on his show, Celebrity Apprentice.
She then contradicted that with Daniels’s testimony Tuesday that a power imbalance was present between the pair and that she “blacked out” while they had sex.
Daniels said she’s “maintained” that Trump never physically threatened her or drugged her.
“Your story has completely changed, hasn’t it?” Necheles asked.
“No, not at all,” Daniels replied, sounding frustrated. “You’re trying to make me say it’s changed, but it hasn’t.”
— Ella Lee
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:29:49 pm
10:26 Trump seemingly celebrates as Stormy cross-examination goes well for him
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside court:
As the jury left for a short morning break, Trump tapped his defense lawyer Susan Necheles on the left elbow as if to thank her for her work cross-examing Daniels.
Once the jury and witness had left, Trump then exited the court and pointed at Newsmax host Greg Kelly in the public gallery.
He clearly thinks he had a good morning.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:39:05 pm
a few seconds ago Court resumes after morning break
Stormy Daniels just reentered the courtroom to continue testifying while Donald Trump was having a conversation with attorney Todd Blanche.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:47:55 pm
10:45 Trump lawyer brings up Make America Horny Again tour showing fliers in court
Trump's lawyer submits social media posts by Stormy Daniels of the fliers to her tour into evidence.
The posts are shown in the courtroom.
Daniels had testified she did not like the name of the tour. She says she reposted to promote for her job.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:54:14 pm
10:51 Stormy Daniels notes 'a lot of indictments' against Trump
Susan Necheles is asking Stormy Daniels about her knowledge of the indictment against Trump.
‘There are a lot of indictments,’ Daniels says. She smiles.
It came as Necheles had been asking Daniels about the payment at the center of the case.
Daniels said she was paid by her lawyer. She never negotiated directly with Donald Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:54:45 pm
10:51 Cross-examination has wrapped up
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 03:56:42 pm
Daniels: ‘No personal knowledge’ of Trump involvement in deal
Under questioning by Necheles, Daniels said she has “no personal knowledge” about the hush money transaction or the business records underpinning it that make up the basis of Trump’s charges.
The adult film actress testified that the money was wired to her by her attorney at the time, Keith Davidson, and she never spoke to Trump about it.
Trump nodded his head affirmatively as she made the remarks.
“I’m just here to answer questions about me,” she said.
— Ella Lee
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 04:04:48 pm
Quote
6 minutes ago Jurors riveted as Trump lawyer spars with Stormy Daniels By Ben Kochman
Jurors were riveted and are looking back and forth at Trump lawyer Susan Necheles and Stormy Daniels as if watching a tennis match during a tense cross-examination.
They were trying to keep a poker face and mostly succeeding, but one juror half-smiled when Daniels said that, despite starring in more than 100 porn films, she'd still be surprised to emerge from her bathroom and see Trump lying half-naked on her bed.
"If I came out of the bathroom and saw an older man in his underwear that I wasn't expecting to see there, yeah," Daniels testified.
Trump, meanwhile, was sitting up straight, in rapt attention, during the back-and-forth.
Quote
6 minutes ago Trump's lawyers wrap up cross-examination; prosecutors questioning Daniels again
Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger has resumed questioning Daniels as part of what's known as "redirect" examination, where the DA's office is allowed to ask a witness to clarify comments made under questioning by defense lawyers.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 04:22:56 pm
11:15 Prosecutor shows Stormy Daniels tweet threatening her
Prosecutor asks Stormy Daniels about a tweet where someone calls her a prostitute and says 'good luck walking down the street.'
It is one of several posts Daniels is asked to view.
Daniels says the ones she is being shown are 'tame' by comparison to some others.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 04:25:40 pm
12:24 PMMay 9, 2024 - rrahman Prosecutors show Trump Truth post Daniels believed was about her
Hoffinger presented a Truth Social post by Trump claiming that he would go after his opponents, which Daniels said she believed was about her.
“IF YOU GO AFTER ME, I’M COMING AFTER YOU,” the Aug. 4, 2023 Truth Social post reads.
Daniels testified that she “wasn’t sure” the post was about her, but “thought it was.”
The prosecutor also asked Daniels about the veracity of her testimony.
“Have you been telling lies about Mr. Trump or the truth about Mr. Trump?” Hoffinger asked.
“The truth,” Daniels replied.
The state concluded its redirect examination.
— Ella Lee
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 04:26:32 pm
a minute ago Stormy Daniels admits 'shilling' merch off Trump fame - 'not unlike' ex-prez himself
Trump’s attorneys pointed to Stormy Daniels' online store that sold a slew of merchandise poking fun at the ex-president — including “Saint of Indictments” devotional candles featuring the porn star as Jesus Christ that went for $40.
Pressed about if she was "bragging" about her Trump ties in order to make cash, Daniels denied it and claimed she barely pocketed any money from the sales.
“No, I’m making about $7,” she said, referring to her take from the candles.
The jury was also shown other items like "#TeamStormy" t-shirt and a $30 "Political Power: Stormy Daniels" comic book.
When Trump lawyer Susan Necheles characterized Daniels' e-commerce operation as "shilling," the adult film star snapped back.
“Not unlike Mr. Trump," she said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 04:29:51 pm
3 minutes ago Stormy Daniels now off the stand By Ben Kochman
Stormy Daniels has wrapped up her testimony following a brief redirect.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 04:36:04 pm
2 minutes ago Now on stand: Rebecca Manochio, Allen Weisselberg's assistant
The next witness is Rebecca Manochio, the assistant for Trump's top money man Allen Weisselberg -- who is currently jailed at Rikers Island for perjuring himself in previous Trump legal matters.
She testified that she's the person who sent Trump checks to sign at the White House throughout 2017, the time period in which he's accused of lying on company records about paying Michael Cohen for phony "legal services" when he was actually reimbursing him for hush money paid to Stormy Daniels.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 04:44:45 pm
11:35 Rebecca Manochio testifies about sending Trump checks down to Washington
Rebecca Manochio is testifying about mailing Donald Trump's checks unsigned down to Washington. They would come back signed.
She says she would FedEx the checks about once a week.
Manochio recalls sending a few checks at a time but has remembered one.
She would put unsigned checks in envelope. Returned checks were also sent to her at Trump Organization with his signature.
Prosecutors allege that Trump signed nine checks for more than $300,000 to repay Michael Cohen while he was President of the United States.
When it was addressed that Trump got a new job as president, Trump smiled.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 05:11:39 pm
22 minutes ago Stormy Daniels leaves Manhattan courthouse after fiery exchange with Trump lawyer By Kaydi Pelletier
After a total of about six hours on the witness stand across two days, Stormy Daniels wrapped her testimony and immediately left Manhattan Supreme Court.
Stormy Daniels’s current attorney, Clark Brewster, heaped praise on the porn actor after she was excused from the stand, posting a photo with her on social media.
“Stormy Daniels was on the stand in NY v Trump criminal trial for a day and a half, ending at 12:30p today. Couldn’t be prouder of my client,” Brewster wrote on social platform X.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 05:14:57 pm
May 9, 2024 - rrahman Bookkeeper says checks were mailed to bodyguard’s home address
Rebecca Manochio testified that, when Trump was president, his checks were mailed to the home address of his personal bodyguard, Keith Schiller.
She said she was not told why the checks were mailed there, but that she was likely directed to do so by Allen Weisselberg or Rhona Graff, another Trump Organization employee.
Schiller also returned the checks in the mail to the Trump Organization.
Manochio’s testimony was backed up by several FedEx invoices prosecutors showed the jury. The Trump Organization employee, who was an administrative assistant at the time, said the only items she mailed to Schiller were checks for Trump to sign.
After Schiller stopped working for Trump, the checks were mailed to John McEntee, she said. McEntee was Trump’s bag man at the time, and the checks were sent to his home address.
Rebecca Manochio, a Trump Organization employee who worked for Chief Financial Officer Allen Weisselberg shortly after Trump became president, testified it was her job to send checks to the White House for Trump to sign.
She said that when she sent the checks to the White House they were unsigned, and when they returned, the then-president had signed them.
She is testifying as a custodian of records for the Trump Organization.
— Ella Lee
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 09, 2024, 05:18:11 pm
“Stormy Daniels was on the stand in NY v Trump criminal trial for a day and a half, ending at 12:30p today. Couldn’t be prouder of my client,” Brewster wrote on social platform X.
For proving and moving the needle that instead of being just a lying money grubbing, two bit hooker into a "bat shit crazy, lying, money grubbing two bit hooker"?
Heaven help him, if that is pride from his professional career review persepctive.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 05:24:37 pm
6 minutes ago Trump team will again call for mistrial, try to keep Playboy model Karen McDougal from testifying By Post Staff
Donald Trump's legal team plans to again call for a mistrial over Stormy Daniels' testimony, his attorney Todd Blanche said before the trial broke for lunch.
They'll also try to prevent the possible testimony of Playboy model Karen McDougal, Blanche told the judge.
Justice Juan Merchan said he'll send the jury home at 4 p.m. in order to hear the defense's arguments.
With Post wires
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 09, 2024, 05:27:37 pm
Considreing this shit is making a mockery of the entire United States jurisprudence process, wish SCOTUS would intervene on an emergency baisis.
Way past 60% of this trial is likely over, I still haven't seen a levied charge.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 06:25:44 pm
6 minutes ago Allen Weisselberg's assistant returns to witness stand
Rebecca Manochio, the assistant for Donald Trump’s top money man Allen Weisselberg, has returned to the witness stand to continue her testimony.
The judge just called for the jury to be brought into the courtroom.
3 minutes ago Judge tells jury it will break early for the day
Justice Merchan tells the jury that the day will end at 4 p.m. today.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 06:29:12 pm
a few seconds ago Weisselberg's assistant finishes testimony; new witness set to be called
Rebecca Manochio wrapped up her testimony in about four minutes of cross-examination after returning from the lunch break.
Donald Trump appeared to smile at her as she walked past him at the defense table and out of the courtroom.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 06:46:49 pm
7 min(s) ago Next witness called to stand in NY v. Trump trial
The defense's cross examination of Rebecca Manochio, the prosecution's 14th witness, has concluded and the next witness has been called to the stand.
The next witness is Tracey Menzies of Harper Collins. Manhattan Assistant DA Rebecca Mangold is handling direct examination.
Menzies is from Monmouth Count, New Jersey, and works for Harper Collins Book Publishing. She was compelled to testify on behalf of Harper Collins.
Menzies is testifying as a custodian of records for Harper Collins, which was subpoenaed. Posted by Kyle Morris
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 06:47:22 pm
4 minutes ago Witness testifies about excerpts from Trump's book on loyalty: "DO NOT TRUST ANYONE"
Here are a few of the excepts that were shown to jurors about loyalty from Donald Trump's book, “Think Big: Make It Happen in Business and Life."
“DO NOT TRUST ANYONE” “I used to say, “Go out and get the best people, and trust them.” Over the years I have seen too many shenanigan, and now I say, “Get the best people, and don't trust them.” Do not trust them because if you don’t know what you are doing, they are going to rob you blind.’ “I think the reason we have so many loyal people is that we reward loyalty, and everybody knows this... People like Allen Weisselberg and Matt Calamari are great and have proven themselves over many years.” I just can’t stomach disloyalty” “My motto is : always get even. When somebody screws you, screw them back in spades.
She is now on cross-examination with Trump attorney Todd Blanche.
11 minutes ago Jurors shown book cover of Trump's book By Kyle Schnitzer
The cover of Donald Trump's "Think Big: Make It Happen in Business and Life" was just shown to the jury.
Trump has his mouth open and is pointing in the direction of the reader.
The book was first published in 2007, according to witness Tracey Menzies.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 06:48:10 pm
3 minutes ago HarperCollins SVP done testifying
A brief cross-examination focusing on guest writers from Trump's book ends as a new witness has been called.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 06:50:07 pm
13:45 Next witness called is Madeline Westerhout
Madeline Westerhout is the next question called by the prosecution.
She works in consulting but she worked as Donald Trump's executive assistant in the White House.
When asked if she's nervous to testify, she says 'I am now.'
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 06:56:00 pm
Quote
a minute ago Westerhout: 'Access Hollywood' tape rattled RNC leadership
Madeleine Westerhout was asked about the infamous "Access Hollywood" tape and said it sent shock waves through the RNC.
"At the time I recall it rattling RNC leadership," she testified.
Quote
3 minutes ago Trump watching ex-assistant testify very closely
Trump has his head aimed to the right as Madeline Westerhout, his former personal assistant at the White House, testifies.
Westerhout currently works as the chief of staff to the chairman at a geo-political consulting firm.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:08:24 pm
5 minutes ago Westerhout was really excited about working outside Oval Office: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
She said yes!
When Donald Trump offered Madeleine Westerhout a job at the White House, the former assistant said that she thought it was really cool even if her title wasn’t.
"Yes I do, that sounds like a really cool job,” Westerhout testified, recalling her former boss asking if she wanted a job sitting outside the Oval Office.
"I knew I was going to sit outside the Oval Office and I didn’t really care what my title was," she said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:09:30 pm
13:55 Westerhout identifies Michael Cohen as Trump's personal lawyer during 2016 transition
Westerhout was known as ‘greeter girl’ at Trump Tower after Trump won the election and before he took office. She came up to New York to help with scheduling.
She is asked about Michael Cohen and identifies him as Trump’s lawyer.
She describes him as ‘around’ at Trump Tower during that time.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:10:25 pm
13:58 Prosecutor taking Westerhout through details of her job at White House
The prosecution is working to establish how closely Madeleine Westerhout worked near Donald Trump in the White House.
The jury is being shown a floorplan of the White House with the Oval Office listed as well as surrounding offices.
Prosecutor asks: 'Did anyone work closer to Trump than you did?’
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:11:29 pm
a minute ago Trump wanted to keep Resolute desk 'pristine,' did reading in dining room at WH: testimony By kschnitzernyp and Kyle Schnitzer
We're getting a glimpse into what it was like to work closely with former president Donald Trump.
Madeline Westerhout said that Trump did liked to read at the White House but avoided using the Resolute desk after a few weeks because he wanted to keep it "pristine."
“He really wanted to keep the resolute desk really pristine and keep it more for meetings,” Westerhout testified, adding that eventually Trump did his reading in an adjacent dining room.
She also said that Trump typically used two pens — his black Sharpie and a "felt-tipped pen."
Trump also preferred hard copies of documents and did not use a computer or have an email address, according to the witness.
Westerhout testified that no one sat as close to Trump while he was president at the White House.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 09, 2024, 07:13:58 pm
a minute ago Trump wanted to keep Resolute desk 'pristine,'
Prisitine? Good.
Versus one recent POTUS who tended to keep it stocked with pre-moistened cigars.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:17:15 pm
4 minutes ago Trump liked exclamation points, using the oxford comma at White House
Madeleine Westerhout testifies about some of Donald Trump's grammatical choices while in the White House — saying the former president likes to "capitalize [the word] country" and was loyal to the oxford comma.
“It’s my understanding he liked to use the oxford comma," she testified.
She added that Trump "liked to use exclamation points."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:20:20 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:22:18 pm
14:16 Jury is seeing emails between Madeleine Westerhout and Rhona Graff
Madeleine Westerhout testifies that her main point of contact at Trump Organization was Rhona Graff, his Trump Organization executive assistant.
When Trump had questions for Trump Organization employees, she recalls she would pass those along.
She says she would speak to Graff weekly if not daily early in the job but that tapered off as the work continued.
The first emails shown invovled an exchange about Westerhout getting contacts from Graff.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 09, 2024, 07:22:57 pm
...hmm.... interesting that she uses the word 'pristine'. That indicates to me that Trump is well organized, neat and tidy, doesn't like clutter, and certainly doesn't like trash.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: bigheadfred on May 09, 2024, 07:22:59 pm
When is the trial part of this Carney show supposed to start?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 09, 2024, 07:24:29 pm
When is the trial part of this Carney show supposed to start?
Better question: When is this Carney show going to end???
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:24:43 pm
To be fair after Googling the Resolute Desk I have found many past POTUS with their feet on the desk.. :shrug:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 07:27:11 pm
14:23 Jury shown list of contacts Rhona Graff sent to Westerhout
The jury is shown a list of contacts provided by Graff to Westerhout.
She recalls it was a list of people Trump reached out to often or might want to speak to.
The list included the then-president’s family including daughter Tiffany, Allen Weisselberg, and David Pecker who Westerhout described as a ‘tabloid person.’
Michael Cohen is also listed.
When she received list she entered all the contacts into her contacts, Westerhout recalls.
If a name appeared on the list, she says ‘yes’ she was more likely to patch them through to the then-president.
Trump's contact list: The rich, the glamorous and the useful Donald Trump's contacts list offers an unparalleled insight into how the former president moves through the world, rubbing shoulders with the rich, the glamorous and the useful.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 09, 2024, 08:09:07 pm
14:23 Jury shown list of contacts Rhona Graff sent to Westerhout
The jury is shown a list of contacts provided by Graff to Westerhout.
She recalls it was a list of people Trump reached out to often or might want to speak to.
The list included the then-president’s family including daughter Tiffany, Allen Weisselberg, and David Pecker who Westerhout described as a ‘tabloid person.’
Michael Cohen is also listed.
When she received list she entered all the contacts into her contacts, Westerhout recalls.
If a name appeared on the list, she says ‘yes’ she was more likely to patch them through to the then-president.
Trump's contact list: The rich, the glamorous and the useful Donald Trump's contacts list offers an unparalleled insight into how the former president moves through the world, rubbing shoulders with the rich, the glamorous and the useful.
Sounds like a great title for a soap opera.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 09, 2024, 08:09:15 pm
No Surprise in that Call list. He let a Kardasian administer Prison Policy.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 08:26:48 pm
3 minutes ago Trump was asked if he wanted to cancel golf club membership in invoice By Kyle Schnitzer
An invoice from Winged Foot Golf Club
Donald Trump was asked whether he wanted to suspend his membership to Winged Foot Golf Club for "4 or 8 years" by his assistant while he was president, documents show.
Madeleine Westerhout testified about an invoice sent by Winged Foot Gold Club for the club's annual dues of $6,979.01 — which featured handwriting by Rhona Graff, Trump's assistant, asking whether he wanted to continue paying even if he couldn't play there often.
“Dear Mr. President! If Winged Foot will allow me to suspend your membership for 4 or 8 years, do you want me to looking into it or do you want to continue paying annual dues + food minimum?" the invoice reads.
Westerhout said that Graff was asking if he wanted to suspend his membership because he "wouldn't be able to use" it while in the White House.
Trump wrote in a bold black pen "PAY" next to Graff's note, and later initial "D" next to "ASAP OK" near the dollar amount of the invoice.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: bigheadfred on May 09, 2024, 08:29:38 pm
3 minutes ago Trump was asked if he wanted to cancel golf club membership in invoice By Kyle Schnitzer
An invoice from Winged Foot Golf Club
Donald Trump was asked whether he wanted to suspend his membership to Winged Foot Golf Club for "4 or 8 years" by his assistant while he was president, documents show.
Madeleine Westerhout testified about an invoice sent by Winged Foot Gold Club for the club's annual dues of $6,979.01 — which featured handwriting by Rhona Graff, Trump's assistant, asking whether he wanted to continue paying even if he couldn't play there often.
“Dear Mr. President! If Winged Foot will allow me to suspend your membership for 4 or 8 years, do you want me to looking into it or do you want to continue paying annual dues + food minimum?" the invoice reads.
Westerhout said that Graff was asking if he wanted to suspend his membership because he "wouldn't be able to use" it while in the White House.
Trump wrote in a bold black pen "PAY" next to Graff's note, and later initial "D" next to "ASAP OK" near the dollar amount of the invoice.
Riveting.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 08:29:43 pm
Quote
35 minutes ago Trump's personal assistant cries while recounting her exit from White House By Kyle Schnitzer
Madeleine Westerhout broke down in tears while on the witness stand while she recounted her exit from the White House.
She said she was "very regretful of my youthful indiscretion" and claimed to have "grown a lot" since her departure in 2019.
Justice Juan Merchan handed her a tissue after the moment.
Westerhout stepped down after she admitted to sharing information about Trump's family with the press.
Quote
33 minutes ago Ex-Trump assistant now on cross-examination By Kyle Schnitzer
Madeleine Westerhout is currently being pressed on cross-examination by Donald Trump attorney Susan Necheles
Quote
26 minutes ago Trump was a 'really good boss,' WH assistant says; jury gets sent home early By Kyle Schnitzer
Madeleine Westerhout, 33, called Trump a "really good boss" while on cross-examination.
"He never once made me feel that I didn’t deserve that job and that I didn’t belong there. Especially in an office filled with older men he never made me feel like I didn’t belong there. He was a really good boss," Westerhout said.
"I found him very enjoyable to work for."
Westerhout is done testifying for the day as the jury was sent home early today.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 08:31:31 pm
Quote
23 minutes ago Two men booted from courtroom
Two men were booted from the Trump courtroom around 4 p.m. Thursday. The members of the public were removed by security.
Quote
17 minutes ago Prosecutors no longer calling Playboy model Karen McDougal to testify: Blanche By Kyle Schnitzer
'The People informed me they no longer intend to call Ms McDougal," Trump lawyer Todd Blanche just said, referring to prosecutors.
Quote
13 minutes ago Trump attorney asks judge to allow Trump to 'respond publicly' to Stormy Daniels' testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Trump attorney Todd Blanche asked the judge to allow the former president to "be allowed to respond publicly" to Stormy Daniels' testimony, in part to the response to the media coverage.
“There’s no doubt there will be a feature on political shows tonight and articles," Blanche said.
He later went on, "This isn’t the same story that has been going around for the past several years. It’s much different. We’d ask you to remove the gag order to Ms. Daniels."
Quote
10 minutes ago Prosecutors respond: Trump's team 'almost lives in an alternate reality'
Responding to Trump attorney Todd Blanche's plea to ditch the gag order against Stormy Daniels, Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Chris Conroy described the attempt as if "it seems as though the other side almost lives in an alternate reality."
“Modifying this gag order now in the middle of trial would signal to future witnesses they could be at risk as well," Conroy said.
Trump passes a note to Blanche after Conroy's comment. Blanche is now responding for a "narrowly tailored gag order."
Quote
a minute ago Trump appears angry as judge denies attempt to rip Stormy Daniels
Donald Trump was hunched forward with a big red grimace on his face as Justice Merchan denied his team's motion for a modified gag order to rip Stormy Daniels.
Merchan said that Trump's "track record speaks for itself" when speaking about witnesses throughout the trial.
Merchan said "can't" take Blanche's word that Trump will curb his "attacks" on witnesses
“These were very real, very threatening attacks on potential witness. Your clients track record speaks for itself," the judge said.
He said earlier: "My concern is not just protecting Ms. Daniels or a witness who just testified. My concern is protecting these proceedings as a whole."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 08:45:07 pm
Quote
9 minutes ago Trump lawyers ask for mistrial, claim Stormy Daniels' testimony about spanking ex-prez was irrelevant By Ben Kochman
Trump attorney Todd Blanche has asked again for a mistrial, claiming that Stormy Daniels' testimony veered into gratuitous detail about her alleged sex romp with the ex-president.
Daniels testified Tuesday that she spanked Trump with a magazine bearing his face on the cover during their tryst inside his Lake Takoe hotel suite.
"It almost defies belief that we are here about a records case, and the government is...asking a series of questions about rolling up a magazine and spanking him," Blanche said.
Judge Merchan did not issue an immediate ruling.
Blanche asked for a mistrial for similar reasons on Tuesday, but was denied, with Merchan saying that issues with Daniels' testimony could be worked out during cross-examination.
Quote
4 minutes ago Stormy's testimony about Trump not using a condom 'dog whistle for rape': Blanche By Kyle Schnitzer
Trump attorney Todd Blanche said that Stormy Daniels' testimony about Donald Trump not using a condom during their alleged sexcapade was "dangerous" evidence" that suggested rape.
“It’s a dog whistle for rape,' Blanche said in the courtroom.
Blanche claims that Trump's team didn't know the extent to what prosecutors were going to ask Daniels, who testified in detail about her alleged affair with Trump at a Lake Tahoe golf course.
"This is not a case about sex," he said.
He also said that the jury is now "hearing about an imbalance of power between a man and a woman."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 08:47:34 pm
a minute ago Prosecutors defend spanking question: 'Establish credibility'
Manhattan prosecutor Joshua Steinglass said that prosecutors had to ask porn star Stormy Daniels about spanking Donald Trump because it helped "establish credibility."
"We had to ask her about the spanking to establish credibility," Steinglass said.
Daniels testified that she spanked Trump with a magazine donning his own face in a hotel room in Lake Tahoe before she allegedly spelt with the former president.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 09:12:23 pm
Quote
11 minutes ago Judge rips Trump attorney for lack of objections during condom testimony: 'I don't understand' By Kyle Schnitzer
Justice Juan Merchan said he has no idea why Trump attorney Susan Necheles didn't object during Stormy Daniels' testimony about Donald Trump not using a condom during their alleged sex affair.
“I agree – it shouldn’t have come out… but for the life of me, I don’t know why Ms. Necheles didn’t object," the judge said.
He later added, “Why on earth she wouldn’t object to the mention of a condom, I don’t understand.”
Quote
5 minutes ago Judge denies Trump's bid for mistrial, says Don's lawyers opened the door to salacious testimony
Trump's bid for a mistrial over Stormy Daniels' salacious testimony was denied.
Judge Merchan ruled that Trump's attorneys had opened the door to "corroborate" her account of the tryst after they called her a liar in their opening statement and at other points in the trial.
"Your denial puts the jury in a position of having to choose who to believe in, Donald Trump who denies the encounter, or Stormy Daniels" who claims that it happened, the judge said.
Trump then stood up and left the room. The trial will resume at 9:30 a.m. Friday.
Quote
21 minutes ago Trump flicks Blanche, appears agitated as prosecutors rip defense for not asking more about Stormy sexual encounter By Kyle Schnitzer
An agitated Donald Trump flicked attorney Todd Blanche as Manhattan prosecutor Joshua Steinglass ripped into the defense for not asking more about the alleged sexual encounter with Stormy Daniels during their cross-examination.
Blanche appeared to motion to Trump to control himself after flicking his left elbow after Trump had a lively conversation with Emil Bove, another attorney.
Steinglass said Trump's side asked "eight questions" of mostly "yes and no" responses when pressing Daniels.
“We tried very hard to pull back the testimony and not have a fulsome description of the sexual act," Steinglass said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 09, 2024, 09:29:52 pm
2 minutes ago Trump rips ruling to deny mistrial a 'disgrace,' claims he is 'being held in this court with a corrupt judge'
Donald Trump ripped Judge Juan Merchan as "corrupt" while ripping his ruling to deny a mistrial in his 'hush money' case as a "disgrace" in fiery comments as he left court on Thursday.
"This judge is corrupt, he's a corrupt judge," Trump said. "This judge, what he did, and what his ruling was is a disgrace."
Judge Merchan ruled just moments prior that the former president's attorneys opened the door to “corroborate” Stormy Daniels' account of the tryst after they called her a liar in their opening statement and at other points in the trial.
Trump sat through extensive testimony by Daniels on Thursday that included her claiming that he did not wear a condom during their sexual encounter and her spanking him – which led to his attorneys requesting a mistrial.
"I have to get back on the campaign trail, I'm not supposed to be here," Trump said. "We are so innocent, there's never been anything like this."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 09, 2024, 10:16:24 pm
Trump New York trial: Karen McDougal won’t take stand after Stormy Daniels testimony
By Kaelan Deese May 9, 2024 5:00 pm
A lawyer for President Donald Trump announced Thursday afternoon that prosecutors no longer plan to bring Playboy model Karen McDougal to testify at his New York criminal hush money trial after two days of testimony from porn star Stormy Daniels.
Trump lawyer Todd Blanche said in court that “we have been informed the People no longer intend to call Karen McDougal as a witness,” according to reports from the trial. It is not immediately clear why prosecutors with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office decided not to bring McDougal to the witness stand.
From her seat on the witness stand, she's speaking far more slowly and clearly than she did when she detailed her alleged tryst with Trump when questioned by prosecutors.
Of course she is. She's been coached for the last 36 hrs
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 09, 2024, 10:37:18 pm
Trump New York trial: Karen McDougal won’t take stand after Stormy Daniels testimony
By Kaelan Deese May 9, 2024 5:00 pm
A lawyer for President Donald Trump announced Thursday afternoon that prosecutors no longer plan to bring Playboy model Karen McDougal to testify at his New York criminal hush money trial after two days of testimony from porn star Stormy Daniels.
Trump lawyer Todd Blanche said in court that “we have been informed the People no longer intend to call Karen McDougal as a witness,” according to reports from the trial. It is not immediately clear why prosecutors with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office decided not to bring McDougal to the witness stand.
The possibility exists the Prosecution is lying. Remember, they have been very cagey about whom they are calling and when. They could just say "Ooopsy!" and call her anyway.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: DB on May 10, 2024, 04:00:54 am
I thought I read somewhere on this thread that she was asked if she was saying she was drugged when she "blacked out" during sex with Trump. If the defense asked that question, it is an admission that there was sex between them. If the prosecution asked that question it means little.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 01:08:52 pm
DAY 15
Former President Trump's ex-attorney Michael Cohen expected to take the stand Monday
Former President Trump's ex-attorney and fixer Michael Cohen is expected to be called to testify Monday as a witness in his former boss' criminal trial.
Cohen arranged the $130,000 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Trump, later, made several payments of $35,000 to Cohen, who was his personal attorney at the time.
Those payments served as the basis for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's indictment of Trump on charges of falsifying business records. Bragg is trying to prove those payments, which totaled $420,000, were a reimbursement for the hush money payment.
But Trump defense attorneys say that the $35,000 payments were "not a payback," but instead, legal payments.
Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree.
Cohen pleaded guilty in 2018 to campaign finance violations, making false statements to Congress and tax evasion. He was sentenced to three years in prison.
The former president has previously called Cohen a "proven liar."
Fox News' Eric Shawn and Fox News Digital's Brooke Singman contributed to this update. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 01:10:21 pm
40 min(s) ago
Trump declares: ‘We are so innocent’
Speaking after his Thursday appearance in court, former President Trump went on the attack against Judge Juan Merchan, who denied a request to modify Trump's gag order.
"So, what happened today? I don't think we have to do any expert explaining. I'm not allowed to anyway because this judge is a corrupt judge. This judge, what he did and what his ruling was, is a disgrace," Trump said after court adjourned, adding Merchan is "totally conflicted."
Trump, the presumptive 2024 Republican presidential nominee, said he's "got to get back on the campaign trail."
"I'm not supposed to be here," Trump said. "We are so innocent. There's never been anything like it.
"I'm innocent, and I'm being held in this court with a corrupt judge who's totally conflicted."
The former president said it is "a disgrace to the city of New York, to the state of New York and to the country."
Fox News Digital's Brooke Singman contributed to this update. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 01:56:22 pm
18 minutes ago Former Trump personal assistant returns to witness stand By Kyle Schnitzer
Madeleine Westerhout will resume testifying as the judge just called for the jury to be brought into the courtroom.
7 minutes ago Trump loves newspapers: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump attorney Susan Necheles has resumed her cross-examination of Madeleine Westerhout, with the pair talking about the front cover of the New York Times when Trump boarded Air Force One for the first time.
Westerhout testified that Trump was "proud" of the front cover, and that he often sent newspaper clippings to those close to him.
Asked if she probably saw Trump send clippings "thousands of times," Westerhout replied: "Yes."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 02:06:56 pm
Judge quashes Trump effort to subpoena documents from DA Bragg's investigation
Judge Juan Merchan has denied former President Trump’s request to subpoena Mark Pomerantz, a former prosecutor in the Manhattan District Attorney's office who left and then wrote a book.
According to a court filing, Trump had sought various documents from Pomerantz during his time as a special assistant district attorney. Trump wanted documents from Pomerantz from Feb. 2, 2021 to Feb. 23, 2022, including materials that dated up until a month before the prosecutor left the DA's office.
The judge wrote the requests “are far too broad and amount to and improper fishing expedition into general discovery." He also said Trump's legal team sought info on topics that are not relevant.
Republicans have claimed that Pomerantz was biased against Trump and politicized the investigation.
In a report released last month, the House Judiciary Committee argued the Manhattan District Attorney's Office "allowed political motivations and animus to infect its prosecutorial discretion."
The GOP-led committee released a 300-page report titled "An Anatomy of a Political Prosecution: The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office Vendetta Against President Donald J. Trump."
Pomerantz testified before the committee in a deposition as part of the investigation. Pomerantz declined to answer most questions, but told the committee that was largely due to the then-pending investigation into Trump.
Pomerantz, a donor to Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign, previously worked on the Trump investigation with ex-prosecutor Carey Dunne under District Attorney Alvin Bragg's predecessor, former Manhattan DA Cyrus Vance. Both Pomerantz and Dunne resigned after Bragg took the helm and raised doubts about pursuing a case against Trump.
After Pomerantz resigned, he wrote a tell-all book based on the investigation, which was still ongoing. The book seemingly made the case to charge Trump.
The committee quoted Pomerantz's book, which they said revealed "his animus, both personally and politically against Trump."
Pomerantz wrote in his book of his "enthusiasm to work on the investigation," but said it "had nothing to do with [his] views about Trump's politics." However, he admitted that he was "not a fan" of Trump, and "had little regard" for him.
Fox News' Maria Paronich and Fox News Digital's Brooke Singman contributed to this update. Posted by Chris Pandolfo
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 02:20:45 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Westerhout off the witness stand
Madeleine Westerhout wrapped up her testimony after about 45 minutes. A new witness, Daniel Dixon, is being sworn in.
Dixon works for AT&T as a lead compliance analyst. He's worked in that role for "roughly six to seven years," he said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 02:25:10 pm
10:18 AMMay 10, 2024 - rrahman Westerhout says she saw Trump sign things without reviewing them
Westerhout told Trump attorney Susan Necheles that she would see Trump signing things without reviewing them.
The witness responded “definitely” when Necheles asked if the former president was a person who multi-tasked.
Prosecutors are attempting to persuade jurors that Trump’s signatures on the checks he is charged over is evidence of his personal knowledge of the hush money arrangements, also highlighting portions of his books that suggest his frugality.
But the defense has leveraged Westerhout and other witnesses to suggest to jurors that aides would constantly ask Trump to sign various documents while in the White House and didn’t actually know what he was signing.
Cross examination is now completed.
— Zach Schonfeld
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 02:26:34 pm
Trump attorney Susan Necheles asked her about the list of contacts she maintained for Trump once he arrived in the White House. The list ranges from news anchors such as Fox’s Bill O’Reilly and MSNBC’s Mika Brzezinski to athletes including Tom Brady and Serena Williams.
Read the list here. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24657483-peoples-69b-attached-contact-list-pdf-1242017
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 02:55:16 pm
AT&T lead compliance analyst takes stand
Daniel Dixon, a lead compliance analyst for AT&T, is the next witness on the stand.
He is under direct examination by Chris Conroy.
Dixon, who was worked at AT&T as a lead compliance analyst for roughly seven years, assists with complying with legal demands and with LE interpreting records.
Dixon's appearance in court Friday came after AT&T received a subpoena.
Dixon was asked about call-detail records and subscriber records that are kept by AT&T.
Prosecution then moved to admit records from AT&T into evidence, with one such record being for Michael Cohen's cellphone.
Dixon went on to define certain words like "mobility," "voice usage" and "SMS." He adds that AT&T records are kept in the UTC time zone.
The direct examination concludes. Posted by Kyle Morris
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 02:59:07 pm
Quote
09:54 Jennie Tomalin's testimony wraps up
Tomalin was cross-examined quickly by defense attorney Emil Bove.
She then left the stand.
Quote
09:43 Next witness: Jennie Tomalin
Jennie is a senior analyst at Verizon.
She is testifying about records in the hush money case.
Prosecutors introduced records of twelve phones from 2015 to 2017. One set of records belonged to Allen Weisselberg, the former chief financial officer at the Trump Organization.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 02:59:14 pm
09:47 Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg appears in court
From Sarah Ewall-Wice, Senior U.S. Political Reporter in court:
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg entered the courtroom this morning.
He walked in carrying a brown folder and sat down a few rows back from the prosecution table.
He is watching Jennie Tomalin from Verizon testify about telephone records.
Bragg has visited the courtroom for the hush money trial before but has not sat in to observe most of the case.
Donald Trump continues to look forward as testimony continues.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 03:02:21 pm
09:58 Court is on a short break
Donald Trump stood up and walked out of the courtroom for a break passing close to where Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg was standing.
He appeared to avoid making eye contact as he walked up the aisle.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 07:15:43 pm
Quote
09:58 Court is on a short break
Donald Trump stood up and walked out of the courtroom for a break passing close to where Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg was standing.
He appeared to avoid making eye contact as he walked up the aisle.
Quote
2 hours ago 'I'd be very proud to go to jail for our Constitution,' Trump says of gag order By Kaydi Pelletier
Donald Trump is talking to reporters in the court hallway after trial just ended for the day.
He again blasted the gag order that prevents him from publicly speaking about witnesses or jury members, saying the judge wants to throw him in jail if he says one word out of line.
"That could happen one day," Trump said. "And I'd be very proud to go to jail for our Constitution."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 10, 2024, 07:16:39 pm
Quote
2 hours ago Prosecutors say they have told both Cohen and Daniels to stay hush about the case By Ben Kochman
Prosecutor Josh Steinglass said his office has repeatedly told Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels to stay quiet about the case -- so far to no avail.
"We have repeatedly asked the witnesses not to do that, but the fact of the matter is that the witnesses are not subject to the gag order," Steinglass told the court.
Cohen has repeatedly spoken about the case, as recently as Wednesday night on TikTok, Donald Trump's lawyer said.
Daniels also posted on X Thursday night, in a taunt to Trump, that "real men respond to testimony by being sworn in and taking the stand in court. Oh...wait. Nevermind."
Quote
2 hours ago Trump's attorney asks judge to put gag order on Michael Cohen over TikTok posts By Kyle Schnitzer
Todd Blanche asked the judge to tell Michael Cohen to cool it with his TikTok posts after Cohen posted a new one Wednesday.
“He’s wearing a white T-shirt with a picture of President Trump behind bars," Blanche told the judge.
"It's becoming improper every day that President Trump is not allowed to talk to this witness, but he continues to talk."
Justice Juan Merchan asked Manhattan prosecutors to tell Cohen to "refrain from making any more statements" about Trump or the trial.
"That comes from the bench," Merchan said.
Prosecutors said they have instructed all witnesses and potential witnesses to refrain from talking about the case.
Quote
2 hours ago Two witnesses expected to be called, prosecutors could rest next week By Kyle Schnitzer
Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass said prosecutors plan to call two witnesses next week — and that their case could possibly rest by the end of the week.
“We expect to call eventually two witnesses and I think it’s entirely possible that we will rest by the end of next week," Steinglass said.
Michael Cohen is expected to be the first witness Monday.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: American Girl on May 11, 2024, 11:41:40 am
I can’t believe this is not a parody.
This is just too much, they mock our country not just Trump!
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Mod2 on May 11, 2024, 01:59:31 pm
Merged threads
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 12:48:02 pm
DAY 16: Michael Cohen's Testifies
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 01:38:44 pm
11 minutes ago Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is here as well By Ben Kochman
District Attorney Alvin Bragg walked into the room wearing a dark blue suit and followed by a handful of aides. He took a seat in the courtroom's second row.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 01:42:31 pm
a minute ago Michael Cohen takes stand to testify against his ex-boss
Michael Cohen entered the room through a side door and walked, as all witnesses have, behind the defense table where Trump is sitting.
He did not make eye contact with Trump as he took the stand to testify against his former boss.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 01:49:09 pm
a minute ago Cohen points Trump out in courtroom By Ben Kochman and Kyle Schnitzer
When asked to identify Trump in the courtroom, Cohen craned his head to the left, and then stood up for a split second, before pointing his former boss out at this seat at the defense table.
"He's wearing a blue and white tie," Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 01:58:45 pm
a minute ago Cohen made $525K a year while working for Trump: testimony
Michael Cohen is testifying about when he first started working for Donald Trump and the Trump Organization — and said he made $525,000 a year working under the title "Executive Vice President and Special Council to Donald J. Trump."
Cohen said that there was a bit of a bump in the road when he first started negotiating with Trump over his salary.
He said it was a "little bit of back and forth" while negotiating, admitting Trump offered him an amount that was "probably not going to work."
Cohen then countered with his number and the two met in the middle, Cohen testified.
He said that his base salary was $375,000 at the time when he first started working for Trump in his 30s, and bonuses were "to be discussed" — which eventually added up to $525,000.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 01:59:16 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:05:18 pm
2 minutes ago Trump had Cohen work on 'personal matters' like when a yellow cab hit his limo: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen said that Donald Trump had him work on personal matters while working under him — including a time when Trump's limo was hit by a yellow taxi cab.
"Knowing I had deep roots in the yellow cab industry, he asked me to reach out to the driver who provided me the police report," Cohen said.
He admitted that he had the yellow cab company "pay the repair on the vechcile."
Quote
4 minutes ago Cohen admits threatening reporters with lawsuits on behalf of Trump By Ben Kochman
Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger is walking jurors through Michael Cohen's history of doing tasks at the personal direction of Donald Trump.
One of Cohen's jobs was to call up reporters and threaten to sue them if they did not change or remove articles that Trump did not like.
"With the press, as an example, if they said something that angered him, I would reach out to the press and I would express to them they would either have to redact or take down the article down or we would file an action against them," Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:07:24 pm
08:00 'Fantastic!' Cohen earned Trump's approval by stiffing Trump University vendors
Cohen is describing some of the tasks he did for Trump, like figuring out how to pay now-defunct Trump University vendors, when bills were far beyond the $2 million in a company bank acount. Cohen said he 'came up with basically 20 percent of everyone’s invoice' - the amount each vendor would get. He 'contacted each and every one.' All but two accepted the low ball offer, other than two, who got nothing. Cohen testified he would tell Trump about each arrangement. Trump said it was 'fantastic.' Asked how the accomplishment made him feel, Cohen said it was 'like I was on top of the world.'
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:08:02 pm
2 minutes ago Trump's eyes closed as Cohen testifies about working together By Kyle Schnitzer
Donald Trump has been slouched back in his seat with his eyes closed, sitting between attorneys Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, during Michael Cohen's testimony.
Cohen is testifying about his working relationship with Trump, saying that when Trump tasked him with something, Trump would say, "Keep me informed, let me know what's going on."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 13, 2024, 02:14:08 pm
So according to Cohen the Trump University was over $10M in debt to just Vendors, never mind the students who got stiffed. Great Businessman.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:15:14 pm
Quote
4 minutes ago Michael Cohen gets emotional as he testifies about working for Trump: 'It was a big family' By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen appeared to choke up briefly while testifying that working for Trump was like working for a "big family."
Cohen described it was a "fantastic" experience in his 10 years under Trump, calling it
"An amazing experience in many, many ways. There were great times, there were several less than great times but for the most part I enjoyed the responsibilities that were given to me," Cohen testified.
He said it was a "big family" working together with Trump and his children.
Cohen testified that he would call Trump "boss" or "Mr. Trump" when addressing him.
Quote
2 minutes ago Cohen admits lying and bullying for Trump to make his boss 'happy'
After describing most of his time working for Trump as "an amazing experience," Cohen was then asked whether he lied on Trump's behalf.
"Did you lie for him?" prosecutor Susan Hoffinger asked
"I did," Cohen replied.
"It was what was needed in order to accomplish a task," he added.
"Did you bully people for him?" Hoffinger continued.
Cohen said that he did.
"The only thing that was on my mind was to accomplish tasks to make him happy," he testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:19:54 pm
a minute ago Cohen testifies about relationship with David Pecker
Michael Cohen said he knew ex-National Inquirer publisher David Pecker before he knew Donald Trump, but it wasn't until he started working for Trump that he spoke with Pecker, often by phone, email or Signal, an encrypted messaging app.
Cohen said he met Pecker at a function on Long Island before he became "reacquainted" with him under Trump.
He said they would use Signal to communicate "depending on the matter" and how those conversations not being "traceable would be beneficial."
"Depending upon the matter. Sometimes we thought that encryption and not having the event traceable would be beneficial," Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on May 13, 2024, 02:27:48 pm
Jim Banks @Jim_Banks You can tell a lot about a case by who they bring in as their closer.
Biden/Bragg is going up in smoke, so they turn to notorious LIAR Michael Cohen.
No one has lied under oath more than Michael Cohen -- just what the prosecution needs to salvage their dumpster fire case! 10:23 AM · May 13, 2024
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:32:19 pm
Quote
a minute ago Trump warned 'women will come forward' before kicking off 2016 presidential bid: testimony
Michael Cohen testified that Donald Trump warned him that negative stories would surface about him when he announced his presidential bid in 2016 — and to "be prepared" that "a lot of women" could come forward.
“Just be prepared – there’s going to be a lot of women coming forward," Cohen said Trump told him at the time.
Quote
7 minutes ago Cohen: Trump didn't run for president in 2011 because of 'The Apprentice' By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testified that Donald Trump decided to not run for president in 2011 because he had another season of "The Apprentice" to take care of.
Trump had "several real estate" projects in addition to "another season of 'The Apprentice,'" Cohen testified.
“As Mr. Trump told me, ‘You don’t leave Hollywood, Hollywood leaves you,'" Cohen said.
Cohen later testified that Trump "promised" him that he would run in the next election cycle when he didn't run in 2011.
Quote
9 minutes ago Cohen speaking slowly in his signature Long Island accent as Trump slouches By Ben Kochman
Wearing a dark blue suit and pink tie, the salt-and-pepper-haired Michael Cohen is speaking slowly and clearly in his signature Long Island accent during his testimony so far.
Donald Trump is sitting slouched way down in his seat at the defense table. He has closed his eyes for several stretches of 30 seconds to a minute.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:34:33 pm
Quote
08:16 Prosecutors get to the heart of the issue: Trump didn't leave a paper trail and didn't use emails
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside the courtroom.
Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger has got quickly to the heart of one of the issues about this case: That Trump has not left a paper trail.
Did Trump ever use email, she asks Cohen. No, he replies.
'During certain conversations, he would comment that emails are like written papers,' he continued.
'He knows too many people who have gone down ... by having emails that prosecutors can use in a case.'
Quote
08:15 Cohen says he could be described as Trump's 'fixer'
Michael Cohen testified that it would be 'fair' to characterize him as Trump's former 'fixer.'
'Some have described me as that,' he told prosecutors.
'If it was in order to place a story that would be advantageous I would speak with them,' he said. He would also bring down the hammer. 'If there was an article that caused him displeasure I’d speak with them as well,' he said.
He agreed his role was to minimize negative stories and enhance positive stories.
Trump has not looked directly at Cohen thus far.
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:45:22 pm
3 minutes ago Cohen testifying about Trump Tower doorman's phony Trump 'love child' story By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testified that Donald Trump told him to take care of a story that circulated about Trump having fathered a "love child."
"I spoke, I went to him immediately to advise him that there was a story because it was a negative story for him and to get his direction on what he wanted me to do," Cohen said.
"He told me to make sure that the story doesn’t get out — 'You handle it,'" Cohen added.
Cohen then testified about the deal that the National Enquirer had arranged to own the story.
“They were going to pay $30,000. They were executing an agreement with the doorman in order to obtain the life rights of this story," Cohen testified.
When asked by prosecutors whether the life rights meant to publish or not publish the story, Cohen said to "not publish the story" and "to take it off the market."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:50:15 pm
a minute ago Trump's reaction to Playboy model's story of affair with Trump: 'She's really beautiful'
Trump didn't deny having an affair with Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal when he was married to his wife Melania when Cohen brought it up to him, Cohen testified.
"His response to me was, 'She’s really beautiful,'" Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 02:52:23 pm
Quote
08:42 Delivery of testimony by Cohen is 'cautious and flat' as he tries to get jury on his side
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside the courtroom:
Michael Cohen's delivery is considered, cautious, flat.
If jurors were expecting a 'pants on fire' type, or a 'jerk', as other witnesses put it, then they are not getting one.
And that is exactly why prosecutors were so happy to get previous witnesses to dish the dirt on him.
In doing so, they have 'inoculated' the jury against his worst points.
We know that Cohen is a convicted perjurer but the prosecution is hoping the jurors are all thinking: Oh, maybe he's not so bad after all.
Quote
08:41 'It’s fantastic! That’s unbelievable!' Trump's reaction to National Enquirer stories
Donald Trump was over the moon when the National Enqurier ran positive stories about him or negative ones about his rivals.
The tabloid magazine would send over stories before they were published, and the editorial team often sought input from Trump.
Cohen would show Trump, and he would say: 'It’s fantastic! That’s unbelievable!'
Quote
08:39 Cohen: Trump said a lot of women would come forward when he announced his run for president
Donald Trump was concerned that many women would come forward when he announced his run for president, Michael Cohen told the court.
The former president’s ‘fixer’ also detailed how he would preview National Enqurier stories and covers before they were published.
Trump and his team knew the power the tabloid had as it was sold in so many supermarkets and bodegas.
Therefore they tried to place positive stories about Trump and negative articles about his opponents.
Cohen revealed that he was in close contact with the National Enquirer publisher at the time, David Pecker, and editor Dylan Howard.
‘Negative ones (stories) I would receive from David or Dylan Howard was Hillary Clinton wearing very thick glasses, some allegations she had some brain injury
‘It was Ted Cruz, a photo of his father with lee Harvey Osawald claiming (he) was involved in the assaination of JFK
‘Article on Marco Rubio in a swimming pool with a bunch of other men claiming they were having a drug binge of some sort.’
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:02:14 pm
08:58 How Trump melted when Cohen told him about Karen McDougal: 'She’s really beautiful'
Prosecutors took Cohen through the period where he learned about bombshell claims by former Playboy playmate Karen McDougal's claims of an extended affair with Trump. 'Boss I gotta talk do you,' Cohen told Trump as he walked into his office on the 26th floor of Trump Tower, he recalled.
'Come in,' I went in
Cohen says he asked Trump if he knew who Karen McDougal was, or 'anything about the story.'
'His response to me was: 'She’s really beautiful.'
'I said, "Okay but there’s a story ..."' Cohen testified.
That was just one early scene in a chain of events that would result in a $150,000 payment to McDougal. According to Cohen, ex-National Enquirer boss David Pecker would put up the money, but Trump told him, 'I’ll take care of it,' meaning he would pay him back.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:07:03 pm
2 minutes ago Trump is either sleeping or showing a lot of discipline in keeping his eyes closed for full half hour
At this point, here's what I can say: Trump is either sleeping or staying very disciplined to his plan of keeping his eyes closed during Cohen's testimony.
He's now been sitting slumped in his chair with his eyes closed for at least 30 minutes.
He has jerked his head forward slightly at least twice. Besides that, he's been completely still
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:13:26 pm
Eric Trump is posting to X from the courtroom
'I have never seen anything more rehearsed!' Eric wrote on X in the middle of Cohen's testimony.
He is seated immediately behind his father in the courtroom Monday.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:24:31 pm
a few seconds ago Trump perks up before his voice is heard on secret recording about hush money made by Cohen
Trump perked up, opened his eyes and appeared to say something to his lawyer Todd Blanche right before his own voice was heard on a recording secretly made by Cohen discussing setting up a "company for the transfer of all of that info about our friend David."
"David" was David Pecker, and the conversation was about a $150,000 payoff to Karen McDougal, Cohen testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:24:40 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:25:14 pm
a minute ago Jury hears taped recording of Cohen, Trump about buying Playboy model's story
Michael Cohen is now describing what was discussed on a recorded conversation between him and Donald Trump.
The jury just heard a snippet from the recording as a transcript is displaced on monitors inside the courtroom.
The recording, from September 6, 2016 was first introduced earlier in the trial under the testimony of Douglas Daus, a tech expert.
Cohen testified it was the only time he recorded a call in 10 years working for Trump.
"It was so I could show it to David Pecker and that way he would hear the conversation, that he would know that we’re going to be paid, Mr. Trump is going to be paying him back," Cohen testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:32:39 pm
10:27 Court hears secret audio Cohen made of a Trump phone call in 2016
The court hears a secret audio recording Cohen made of a conversation about the Karen McDougal story.
The recording was secretly made on September 6th 2016 by Cohen as he was in discussions with the National Enquirer about buying up the rights to the story from Ms McDougal, who was Playboy Playmate of the Year in 1998.
Before speaking to Cohen, Trump can be heard talking to somebody called ‘Pam’.
He says: ‘Maybe it would be better if you didn’t come. Because of this. It’s so false what they’re saying. Such b*******’.
It is unclear what Trump is referring to.
Cohen enters and says: ‘I need to open up a company for the transfer of all of that info regarding our friend, David, you know, so that -- I’m going to do that right away’.
According to prosecutors, this was a company Cohen was setting up to pay the $150,000 back to the Enquirer, which would pay McDougal for her story.
In the end he never did pay the money.
The ‘our friend David’ referred to David Pecker, who at the time was publisher of the Enquirer.
Cohen continues: ‘ I’ve spoken to Allen Weisselberg about how to set the whole thing up,’ referring to the man who at the time was chief financial officer of The Trump Organization, Trump’s real estate business.
Trump replies: ‘So, what do we got to pay for this? 150?’
Cohen replies: ‘Yes. And it’s all the stuff’.
On the tape there is crosstalk between the two men and it is unclear who Trump is referring to when he says: ‘Maybe he gets hit by a truck’.
Cohen says: ‘Correct. So, I’m all over that. And, I spoke to Allen about it,when it comes time for the financing, which will be…’
Cutting in, Trump says: ‘Listen, what financing?’
When Cohen says they will ‘have to pay him something’, Trump cuts in: ‘Pay with cash’.
To reassure him, Cohen says: ‘No, no, no, no, no, I got it’.
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:33:47 pm
Cohen secretly records his client [Trump]
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 13, 2024, 03:36:38 pm
Former President Donald Trump was joined by a bevy of high-profile supporters Monday morning outside the Manhattan courtroom, where the NY v. Trump trial will hear from key witness Michael Cohen.
As Trump spoke to the media early Monday morning, Republican supporters such as Ohio Sen. JD Vance, New York Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville, his son Eric Trump, and others were seen standing behind the 45th president for what is anticipated to be an action-packed day in court.
Trump's comments ahead of court Monday focused on his argument the case is a "baseless, politically motivated prosecution" promoted by the Biden administration, while highlighting a recent poll showing him leading Biden in key battleground states.
"The New York Times just came out with a poll that shows us leading everywhere by a lot. This is the cover story. And I think you'll find it very interesting, but I'm sure you've all read it. Leading in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Michigan, Georgia and Nevada. Nevada, we are leading actually by 12 points, which is generally a Democrat state," Trump said.
Posted by Emma Colton
Fox News
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:37:41 pm
10:35 Court takes a mid-morning break
The jury has been excused and Michael Cohen has stepped down from the stand after the first part of his testimony.
After detailing the hush money deal made to kill Karen McDougal's affair story, he is likely to be asked about what led to the payments to Stormy Daniels.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 13, 2024, 03:54:59 pm
Unlike Stormy, I believe he really cared about/for Karen and when all was said and done, she was all but screwed in the end, along with Pecker. Take note Trumpers.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:55:33 pm
2 minutes ago Michael Cohen resumes testifying By Kyle Schnitzer
Cohen is taking questions from prosecutors about phone records. Cohen testified that he never altered the recording and the recording was cut off because he received an incoming call.
Trump's team has suggested that the call was doctored.
Meanwhile, Trump has spent time reading through a stack of pages as Cohen continues testifying.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:56:47 pm
10:48 How Trump's courtroom cheerleaders spent the morning session: Live tweeting
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside the courtroom:
Sen JD Vance spent the morning session live tweeting proceedings from the second row of the courtroom.
So although Trump cannot comment on witnesses, his supporters can ... and did: 'Michael Cohen admitting he secretly recorded his employer. Just totally normal conduct, right? The best part is he said he did it only once and only for Trump’s benefit. A standup guy!'
Vance and Trump's other cheerleaders, Sen. Tommy Tuberville, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and the AGs of Alabama and Iowa, have not returned after the break
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 03:57:16 pm
4 minutes ago Trump's politician buds skip out during mid-morning break, after flouting no-phone-in-court rule
Trump's politician supporters appear to have deserted him during the trial's 15-minute mid-morning break.
Sens. JD Vance and Tommy Tuberville and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis had all been seated behind Trump in the courtroom's second row. All are gone now.
The pols were all observed typing away on their phones during the morning's proceedings, violating the court's rules. Court officers did not appear to speak to them about this.
The courtroom has four clearly visible signs telling audience members not to use their phones. Court officers have hassled reporters and members of the public for glancing at their phone for even a half-second.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:03:04 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Jury shown text of possible LLC names for hush money payments
A text message showing possible LLC names for hush money payments between Daniel Rotstein and Michael Cohen are being shown to the jury.
In the September 7, 2016 text, Rotstein texted Cohen: “Please find possible names. I am working ont he assignment agreement.”
The text, which included a picture of a list of names, reads:
Media Holdings, INc Media Investments, Inc Integrated Investments, INc World Investments, Inc. Gotham Investments, Inc.
Quote
a minute ago Ohio Sen. J. D. Vance blasts Cohen as 'convicted felon' outside court By Tamar Lapin
Ohio Sen. J. D. Vance and other political allies of Trump's are holding a press conference outside Manhattan court.
"Does any reasonable person believe anything Michael Cohen has said?" Vance asked about Cohen, noting that Trump's former attorney and "fixer" is a "convicted felon."
Other Republicans who showed up to back Trump in court today include New York Rep. Nicolle Malliotakis and Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:04:17 pm
Trump's political allies slam 'depressing' courtroom in press conference outside trial
Ohio Sen. JD Vance led the press conference, starting off by slamming Cohen as a 'convicted felon.'
'Does any reasonable person believe anything Michael Cohen has said?' he continued.
He went on to attack Judge Merchan's daughter for profiting off the case and the top prosecutor in the case Michael Colangelo, who left Biden's DOJ to prosecute Trump.
'This is a threat to American democracy,' Vance went on.
2 minutes ago Michael Cohen resumes testifying By Kyle Schnitzer
Cohen is taking questions from prosecutors about phone records. Cohen testified that he never altered the recording and the recording was cut off because he received an incoming call.
Trump's team has suggested that the call was doctored.
Meanwhile, Trump has spent time reading through a stack of pages as Cohen continues testifying.
What kind of idiot interrupts a recorded call WITH THE POTUS you're trying to hurt...to take another call? /s
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:08:23 pm
Quote
3 minutes ago Trump smirks, shakes head when Cohen explains why he taped hush money conversation By Ben Kochman and Kyle Schnitzer
Trump cracked a smirk and shook his head after Cohen claimed he recorded their Sept. 6, 2016 phone conversation -- in which they discussed a $150,000 hush money payment to Karen McDougal -- in order to reassure David Pecker that he'd be paid back for fronting McDougal the payout.
"It was so I could show it to David Pecker and that way he would hear the conversation, that he would know that we’re going to be paid, Mr. Trump is going to be paying him back," Cohen testified.
Trump in general seems more animated so far after returning after the mid-morning break.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 13, 2024, 04:11:32 pm
I understand why Noem is not there but what about Stefanik. It is her state and she's on the medium list for VP. :shrug:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:18:44 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Cohen testifies that Trump 'directed' Karen McDougal hush money payment
Cohen stressed just now that his role in the $150,000 payout to Trump's alleged ex-lover Karen McDougal was done at Trump's direction.
“What I was doing, I was doing at the direction and for the benefit of Mr. Trump,” he testified.
Quote
7 minutes ago Trump looking intently at stack of papers as Cohen testifies By Ben Kochman
Donald Trump is leafing through a stack of papers in front of him at the defense table while Michael Cohen continues his testimony.
Trump's aides have been spotted handing him news clips to read at other points during the trial, but it's hard to make out in the room exactly what he's looking at.
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a minute ago Cohen learned about 'Access Hollywood tape' from Hope Hicks: testimony
Michael Cohen testified that he was in London for his daughter's birthday and wedding anniversary when he became aware of Trump's infamous "Access Hollywood" tape.
Cohen said he received a call from Hicks, and then later from Steven Bannon, Trump's campaign manager.
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2 minutes ago Cohen testifies that Trump 'directed' Karen McDougal hush money payment
Cohen stressed just now that his role in the $150,000 payout to Trump's alleged ex-lover Karen McDougal was done at Trump's direction.
“What I was doing, I was doing at the direction and for the benefit of Mr. Trump,” he testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:19:36 pm
11:15 Cohen tells the court he went to Allen Weisselberg to get funding to buy the Karen McDougal story
Michael Cohen told the court how he went to Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg to get the money for Karen McDougal’s ‘life rights’.
Weisselberg said it would ‘defeat the purpose’ if the money came from the business.
The point was not to have Trump’s name affiliated with the story at all.
Cohen therefore asked Weisselberg to come up with other ways to provide the cash.
One of the ideas was to ‘come up with a LLC’ or limited liability company to facilitate the payment.
This led to 10 or 12 conversations with Weisselberg about the McDougal transaction, Cohen told the court.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:24:58 pm
a few seconds ago Trump claimed 'locker room talk' spin on 'damaging' Access Hollywood tape was Melania's idea, Cohen says
The plan to dismiss the "Access Hollywood" tape -- in which Trump brags on a hot mic about grabbing women by their genitals -- as "locker room talk" was Melania Trump's idea, Trump claimed in a conversation with Cohen, Cohen testified.
"We needed to put a spin on this, and the spin he wanted was that he was locker room talk," Cohen testified, glancing jury.
"He told me that that’s what Melania thought it was," Cohen added.
Cohen also admitted that "the sum and substance of the recording is quite damaging."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:31:43 pm
4 minutes ago Chris Cuomo texted Cohen about 'Access Hollywood' tape: 'He's dying right now' By Kyle Schnitzer
Former CNN anchor Chris Cuomo texted Michael Cohen while he was in London with family about how he was going to handle the "Access Hollywood" tape — with Cuomo claiming Trump was "dying right now."
Cohen testified that Cuomo texted him on October 8, 2016 asking if he was going to defend Trump.
"You going to defend him?" Cuomo asks, which Cohen responded by saying, "I'm in London."
Cohen went on, "I have been asked by everyone to do shows starting Tuesday," and then followed up with another text, saying, "Not sure what I will do."
Cuomo then texted Cohen insinuating it could kill Trump's campaign.
"Will be too late. He is dying right now," Cuomo said in the text.
When asked who Cuomo referred to as "dying," Cohen testified that he meant Trump.
"When he referred to he, he meant Mr. Trump. That he meant this is a tremendously negative story in regard to the Trump campaign," Cohen testified.
This was about a month before the election, Cohen testified, and that it would impact "especially with women votes."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:32:33 pm
a few seconds ago 'Catastrophic': Cohen describes Stormy Daniels' story coming out after 'Access Hollywood' tape released By Kyle Schnitzer
After the "Access Hollywood" tape was released, murmurs of Stormy Daniel's story reappearing was described as "catastrophic" for Trump's campaign by Michael Cohen.
“Catastrophic. That this is horrible for the campaign," Cohen testified about the porn star's story about allegedly having an affair with the former president.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:37:27 pm
3 minutes ago Cohen asked Trump if he had sex with Stormy Daniels. His response? 'She's a beautiful woman'
Trump dodged the question when Cohen asked him in 2016 whether he had sex with Stormy Daniels, Cohen testified.
"No, ma’am," Cohen replied when a prosecutor asked him whether Trump answered.
"He turned around and said that she was a beautiful woman," Cohen recalled Trump telling him.
A "beautiful woman" is the same way that Trump described Karen McDougal, Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:39:31 pm
11:26 'Access Hollywood' tape blows up while Cohen is on holiday in London
Cohen is describing a dramatic email chain when Trump's camp learned about the infamous 'Access Hollyood' tape. 'Deny, deny, deny,' campaign spokeswoman Hope Hicks wrote him.
'Please call me,' Cohen wrote Steve Bannon, who he misidentified as Trump campaign manager.
'It’s all over the place. Whose doing damage control here?' Cohen asked.
Asked why he would make such an inquiry, he responded, 'In order to protect Mr. Trump.'
Asked if he was concerned about the impact on the campaign,' he responded in the affirmative.
It was another effort by prosecutors to fill out his role with respect to the 2016 campaign.
Donald Trump's Access Hollywood tape can be used at defamation trial The notorious 2005 'Access Hollywood' video in which Donald Trump was caught on a hot mic speaking disparagingly about women can be shown to jurors, a judge ruled on Tuesday.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:52:17 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago Cohen: Trump 'wasn't thinking about Melania,' only about the campaign
Michael Cohen testified that Donald Trump was so consumed with the suppression of Stormy Daniels' story that he wasn't focused on his relationship with wife Melania, but only his campaign.
“He wasn’t thinking about Melania. This was all about the campaign," Cohen testified.
Trump's head turned in the direction of Cohen, where he shook his head and had a sly smile on his face.
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4 minutes ago Trump admitted 'women will hate me' if Stormy Daniels' story came out: Cohen
Trump told Cohen that Stormy Daniels' story about Trump cheating on his wife with her in 2006 would be a "total disaster" if it came out, Cohen testified.
"Women will hate me," Trump admitted, per Cohen.
"Guys may think this is cool, but this is going to be a disaster for the campaign," Trump added, according to Cohen.
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Trump told Cohen to 'take care' of Stormy Daniels story: testimony
Michael Cohen testified that when he first learned about Stormy Daniels' story in 2011, he knocked on Trump's door demanding to speak with the former president — who instructed him to "take care of it."
"After I received the information from Dylan Howard, I immediately went to Mr. Trump's office, knocked on the door. "Boss, I gotta speak to you," Cohen said.
Cohen said he learned about the story when he worked with Keith Davidson, Stormy's attorney, to get thedirty.com to remove a blog blog about the alleged affair.
According to Cohen: "I told him that one of the things that we need to do is obviously take care of it. He said, 'Absolutely. Do it, take care of it.'"
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 04:53:41 pm
11:42 Cohen testifies Trump called Stormy a 'beautiful woman' when they discussed the time they met
Cohen testified about a meeting with Trump in his Trump Tower office amid porn star Stormy Daniels' interview with TheDirty.com in 2011.
Cohen described the outlines of Daniels' allegations about an affair dating to a 2006 golf tournament. Cohen was asked if Trump told him anything about having met the porn star.
'He told me that he was playing golf with Big Ben Roethlisberger, the Pittsburgh Steelers star. 'They had met Stormy Daniels and others there,' Cohen testified.
Cohen cracked a smile when he described a boast by Trump where he stacked up well agains the football player. 'But she liked Mr. Trump and that women prefer Trump even over someone like Big Ben,' he said.
He said Trump didn't answer directly whether Trump and Daniels had sex. But Trump said she was a 'beautiful woman.' (Trump has called Daniels 'horse face' in tweets after she publicly accused him of the affair).
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a few seconds ago Court breaks for lunch with Cohen still on stand
Court is off for a lunch break, with Michael Cohen still on the stand. The trial will resume at 2 p.m.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: 240B on May 13, 2024, 04:54:24 pm
This is a stupid question, but how is ANY of this, is ANY of this rehashing old news, connected to a mislabeled book-keeping entry?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 13, 2024, 05:08:56 pm
Since we're asking Stupid Questions. If the Stormy/Karen affairs had come out after the Nomination/Convention and before the Election 'Would Ryan/McConnell/Priebus paid a Visit to NYC/Trump Tower to address the Crisis in the GOP'?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: rustynail on May 13, 2024, 05:20:18 pm
This testimony is Devastating. Cohen shows real gravitas he has this jury enthralled.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 06:03:59 pm
a few seconds ago NY Rep. Malliotakis, Ohio Sen. Vance back in court to support Trump
New York Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and Ohio Sen. JD Vance were spotted walking into the courtroom shortly after Trump returned from the lunch break at about 1:54 p.m.
The two pols and other Republicans have been in court to support the presumptive GOP presidential nominee and held a press conference earlier bashing the prosecution's star witness, Michael Cohen.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 06:08:21 pm
a few seconds ago Cohen has resumed his testimony
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 13, 2024, 06:34:49 pm
Michael Cohen walks jurors through how he set-up Daniels payment Following the lunch break, prosecutors are having Cohen walk jurors through how he slow-walked the Stormy Daniels deal but ultimately set up a bank account and a shell company to make the $130,000 payment.
The jurors have already seen many of exhibits that prosecutors are pulling up, which include emails and texts Cohen sent or received.
— Zach Schonfeld
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 13, 2024, 06:35:20 pm
Jury sees Melania Trump’s text to Cohen The jury saw a text from Melania Trump, the former president’s wife, to Cohen on the morning of Oct. 18, 2016.
“Good morning Michael, can you pls call DT on his cell. Thanks,” Melania Trump wrote.
“Of course,” Cohen responded moments later.
Cohen said he left a voicemail for Trump the prior night indicating that Stormy Daniels was looking to pull out of the hush money deal, because she hadn’t received her $130,000 payment yet.
Cohen testified that he told Trump he no longer believed they could stall things past the election.
— Zach Schonfeld
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: corbe on May 13, 2024, 06:48:10 pm
Cohen says he used home equity line of credit to avoid wife’s suspicions
Cohen used his home equity line of credit (HELOC) to fund the $130,000 payment to Daniels.
On the stand, Cohen said he couldn’t pull the money directly from his bank account because he owned it jointly with his wife, who would raise suspicions, but Cohen stressed that he couldn’t tell her about the deal.
“My wife was the CEO of the household,” Cohen said.
— Zach Schonfeld
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 06:49:07 pm
3 minutes ago Cohen asked David Pecker to cover Daniels' hush money payment, but was denied
Cohen testified that, fearful that Daniels would sell her story to the Daily Mail, he asked David Pecker to pay the $130,000 to Daniels to keep the porn star's story quiet.
"I figured, why not ask?" Cohen testified, drawing some chuckles in the room.
But Pecker, who had already paid Karen McDougal $150,000, blanched at paying Daniels as well.
"Not a chance," Pecker told Cohen, Cohen recalled.
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11 minutes ago Weisselberg wanted to generate $130K through golf memberships, bar mitzvah at Trump properties: Cohen By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testified that Allen Weisselberg, the former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization, talked about possibly generating $130,000 through golf memberships or holding a wedding at one of Trump’s facilities.
The conversation happened when Cohen was scrambling to find a way to fund the LLC account to pay off Daniels, when Weiselberg suggested that he should see if someone wanted to buy a membership at one of Trump’s golf clubs.
Other options included finding someone to host a wedding or bar mitzvah, Cohen said.
He testified that it “wasn’t a possibility because each of those entities have a Trump name” attached to it and he wanted to keep it away from Donald Trump’s name.
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22 minutes ago Cohen used Yom Kippur as excuse to delay Stormy Daniels hush money payment By Ben Kochman
Michael Cohen testified that Donald Trump told him to delay paying Stormy Daniels the $130,000 until after the election.
As part of this plan, Cohen emailed Daniels' lawyer Keith Davidson on Oct. 12, 2016, that he couldn't talk on the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur -- but it was just part of their ruse to stiff Daniels, Cohen testified.
Trump believed that if they could merely push off the payment until after the election, "it would not matter," Cohen told jurors.
Yom Kippur is the most sacred day on the Jewish calendar, and is intended to be used for atonement and repentance.
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29 minutes ago Cohen said he had to change LLC name because it had same name as friend's company By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen admitted he had to change the name of the LLC for hush money payments because it had the same name as his friend's company.
“I realized during the process but I couldn’t realize why we called it Resolution Consultants," Cohen testified.
"It’s actually the name of a company of someone that I know who is out of state, and I don’t think he’d appreciate using the same name as his company."
Cohen said he changed the name to "Essential Consultants LLC."
Cohen then testified he lied on paperwork filing out the form to say it was a management consulting company because he wasn't sure if it would go through knowing it was money for a porn star.
"I'm not sure if they would've opened it if it stated 'to pay off an adult film star for a nondisclosure agreement,'" Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 06:55:44 pm
2 minutes ago Cohen had two phone calls with Trump before executing hush money payment: testimony By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testified that he had two phone calls with Donald Trump right before he walked to a bank to make the payment to Stormy Daniels' lawyer, Keith Davidson.
The jury was shown a call log from October 26, 2016, which showed Cohen had two calls with Trump around 8:30 a.m.
Explaining the situation, Cohen said: "I wanted to ensure that once again he approved what I was doing because I require approval from him on all of this."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 06:56:51 pm
13:52 Cohen tells the jury he decided to fund $130,000 himself from a home equity loan
Cohen told the jury he decided to fund the $130,000 himself from his HELOC, or home equity loan, to keep it away from his wife.
He said: ‘My wife as chief executive of the household would not understand if there was $130,000 missing from out joint bank account
‘That would have been a problem for me. Once I received the money back from Mr Trump I would deposit it and nobody would be the wiser’
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: 240B on May 13, 2024, 07:09:55 pm
Keep in mind during all of this 'testimony' that this is Cohen's last chance. He will be fighting like a trapped animal and will lie about anything as freely as a prisoner under torture. Cohen has no choice.
Cohen will never work again as any kind of lawyer or consultant. His employed life is over, unless he can get some anti-Trump gig with CNN or MSNBC. He is done. He is finished when this trial ends. So he is flailing about throwing anything and everything at Trump because he has nothing to lose.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:16:41 pm
a minute ago Cohen says he paid off Daniels with Trump's approval - and a promise he'd be repaid By Ben Kochman
Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger asked Cohen whether he would have paid Daniels the hush money without Trump approving it first.
“Everything required Mr. Trump’s sign off,” Cohen testified.
Cohen added that he wanted to let Trump know about the payoff in advance to ensure he'd be paid back.
“On top of that, I wanted the money back," he testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:29:16 pm
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a few seconds ago Michael Cohen, an ex-con who's served prison time
Michael Cohen pleaded guilty in two separate federal cases in 2018 and did prison time for the crimes.
Cohen first copped to tax evasion, making false statements to a bank and to campaign finance violations in August 2018 in connection to the hush money payments he arranged to be paid to porn star Stormy Daniels and to Playboy model Karen McDougal on President Trump's behalf.
He then pleaded guilty in November 2018 for lying to Congress about his efforts during the presidential campaign to seek approvals and financing from the Russian government for a Trump development project in Moscow. Cohen said he lied to match his story with Trump's "political messaging."
Then in December, Cohen was sentenced to three years behind bars but he was released to home confinement after just over a year in May 2020 in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID in prisons.
Cohen was freed from home confinement in November 2021.
He previously testified against Trump at a civil fraud trial last year, where Trump's team sought to discount his testimony based on the fact he's a convict and admitted liar. Trump's lawyers will likely also attack Cohen's credibility at the current trial.
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5 minutes ago Cohen says he 'wanted credit for myself' after Stormy Daniels deal was done By Post Staff
Michael Cohen told jurors he immediately told Donald Trump that the Stormy Daniels deal was done on Oct. 27, 2016 -- two weeks before the presidential election -- because he wanted "credit" from his then-boss.
“The task he gave to me was finished, accomplished and done,” Cohen testified, adding he sent Trump the update “to take credit for myself so that he knew I had done it and finished it, because this was important.”
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7 minutes ago Court takes an afternoon break
We will be back soon.
8 minutes ago Cohen says he spoke with Hope Hicks, David Pecker after learning about WSJ story By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen said he spoke with Donald Trump's communications chief Hope Hicks and National Enquirer publisher David Pecker to plan a defense after learning that a Wall Street Journal story set to be published would not only mention Playboy model Karen McDougal but also would mention Stormy Daniels.
Jurors were shown a call log of Cohen’s calls, which he confirmed and then explained the situation.
He said he spoke with the pair “so that we could all coalesce around this issue in an attempt to again quell the potential effects of an article like this."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:30:07 pm
a few seconds ago Trump listed as 'David Dennison' and Daniels as 'Peggy Peterson' in hush money contract shown to jurors
Jurors took another look this afternoon at a copy of a hush money contract struck between Cohen and Daniels that used fake names to describe Trump and Daniels.
Daniels' name was marked down as "Peggy Peterson," while Trump's was "David Dennison," the document shows.
Cohen also said he falsely called the $130,000 a "retainer" on a wire transfer form, when it was really a hush money payment.
A year later, Trump's company falsely marked the reimbursements to Cohen as "legal services" on filings throughout 2017, trial evidence shows.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: rustynail on May 13, 2024, 07:36:57 pm
"Peggy Peterson,"? That name could give a look into Cohen's proclivities.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:40:58 pm
2 minutes ago Prosecutors to continue questioning Cohen on Tuesday
The DA's office said just now that they expect their questioning of Cohen to go into at least part of Tuesday. That means Trump's lawyers won't be able to start what's expected to be a fiery cross-examination until at least tomorrow
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:42:57 pm
14:17 Michael Cohen's crisis response to Wall Street Journal's McDougal bombshell: blame 'Clinton machine'
Cohen testified about how key figures responded to a Wall Street Journal report that blew open the Karen McDougal story, after spending hours speaking about his role in 'catch and kill' matters.
Hope Hicks, who testified earlier, emailed Cohen with some proposed responses, which Cohen tersely described as an effort to 'deny.' She called the story 'false' and wanted to call out a 'publicity hungry individual.'
'We have nothing to do with this final attempt by the liberal elite to disparage Donald Trump and stop this historic movement,' was one of HIcks' proposed responses, just hours before the election.
Cohen wrote back with his preferred language
'Instead, say these accusations are completely untrue and just the latest despicable attempt by the liberal media and the Clinton machine to distract the public …' Cohen advised.
Asked if Trump was angry during this frantic period of damage control that could surface the Stormy Daniels story, Cohen said 'Yes. Because there was a negative story that could impact the campaign as a result of women.'
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:48:18 pm
a minute ago Cohen disappointed Trump didn't consider him for Chief of Staff position
Michael Cohen said he was disappointed that Donald Trump didn't consider him for his Chief of Staff role in the White House.
Trump didn't offer him the position, and Cohen even admitted he didn't "believe" the role was the right fit, but he just wanted his name included with other candidates.
“I had other ideas for myself that I wanted but I wanted to be considered. It was more about my ego than anything," Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:59:06 pm
Testimony a little boring today...cross should be good...lol
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 07:59:37 pm
3 minutes ago How Cohen tried sweet-talking Trump into making him 'personal attorney to the president' By Kyle Schnitzer
Cohen said he pitched Trump on being the personal attorney to the president, and even brought in another lawyer to help sweet talk Trump into giving him the role.
“He went through this pitch explaining the importance and necessity of having a personal attorney for his own protection and why I fit exactly that role," Cohen testified.
Trump had his eyes closed during Cohen's speech, as he has several times throughout his former attorney's testimony.
Cohen said he didn't not "expect to be compensated" for the role and did not discuss compensation.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 08:03:11 pm
2 minutes ago 'Pissed off': How Cohen reacted to Trump cutting his bonus in 2016
Michael Cohen explained how Trump dished out annual bonuses around the office — and how he reacted having his bonus cut by two-thirds in 2016.
"I used quite a few expletives," Cohen said recalling a conversation with Allen Weisselberg about his skinny bonus.
Cohen said he used "colorful language about how truly pissed off and angry I was."
Trump would have Rhona Graff, his personal assistant, walk around the office and give employees a Christmas card signed by Trump and others, Cohen testified — explaining that inside the card would be a check for the bonus that year.
“Rhona came and delivered the envelope and the Christmas card," Cohen said about the 2016 year.
Cohen said he was "angry – beyond angry. Cut my bonus by two-thirds.”
He said he was personally insulted by Trump cutting his bonus after he laid out "$130,000 on his behalf to protect him."
“I was truly insulted, personally hurt. I didn’t understand it, made no sense, after all I had gone through – the campaign, things at the Trump Organization," Cohen testified.
"Laying out 130K on his behalf to protect him – it was insulting the gratitude shown back to me was to cut a bonus by two-thirds."
Trump took a few scratches to his neck during Cohen's testimony.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 08:15:43 pm
Square profile picture 🇺🇸Travis🇺🇸 @Travis_4_Trump JUST IN: The prosecution is currently making a great case, against Michael Cohen. So far, every piece of evidence has been conversation between Cohen and others. The only thing Cohen has against Trump is his word. Conveniently, the really damaging evidence was on an encrypted messaging app, so it can’t be recovered.
It’s becoming increasingly apparent that Cohen acted of his own free will doing things to please Trump because he worshipped him. He’s yet to say Trump demanded he do anything, only that he felt pressured because he was afraid.
Why is this loser even allowed to testify? He’s a coward and a sellout
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 08:26:21 pm
a minute ago Cohen texted 'Taxi King' Gene Friedman gloating about becoming 'personal counsel' to Trump
A text shown to jurors sent by Michael Cohen to Gene Friedman shows Cohen telling the "Taxi King" that he was going to be "personal counsel to Pres Trump."
The text, dated January 17, 2017, shows Cohen texted Friedman, who he identified as the "operator of yellow cabs" he owned, writing: Thank u. I leave tomorrow for DC and just between us, I will be personal counsel to Pres Trump."
Friedman was stripped of 800 medallions by the Taxi & Limousine Commission in 2017 shortly before his arrest for tax fraud.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 08:37:10 pm
Quote
3 minutes ago Michael Cohen to resume testimony on Tuesday By Ben Kochman
We’re done for the day. We’ll be back tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. with more testimony from Trump’s fixer-turned foe, Michael Cohen.
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4 minutes ago Here's how Trump's business reimbursed Cohen for the hush money payout, per trial evidence By Ben Kochman
Then-Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg wrote down notes explaining the scheme to reimburse Michael Cohen for his $130,000 payout to Stormy Daniels, trial evidence shows.
Weisselberg scrawled messy notes explaining the scheme on a copy of a bank statement for Cohen's shell company that was used to make the Daniels payout, Essential Consultants LLC.
Here's how it worked:
-- They started with a $130,000 payment to reimburse Cohen for paying the Daniels hush money.
-- They then added $50,000 owed to Cohen to reimburse him for paying an IT firm called "Red Finch," which Cohen testified he hired to rig online polls in favor of Trump in 2015.
-- Then they doubled $180,000 to $360,000 to make up for the roughly 50% taxes the Midtown Manhattan resident would have to pay because he was in a high tax bracket.
-- They then added an extra $60,000 as a "bonus" to make up for Trump apparently stiffing Cohen on a bonus the previous year.
-- Weisselberg told Cohen that the new total of $420,000 would be paid out in 12 installments of $35,000 throughout 2017.
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7 minutes ago Trial is done for day, back tomorrow at 9:30 a.m
We're done for the day. We'll be back tomorrow with more testimony from Trump's fixer-turned foe, Michael Cohen.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 13, 2024, 08:45:50 pm
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3 minutes ago Trump accuses trial judge of being 'corrupt' and 'conflicted' on his way out of court By Post Staff
Trump again ripped Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan as "corrupt" on his way out of court.
He called Merchan, who was first appointed to the bench in Bronx family court in 2006 by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, then a Republican, of being "highly conflicted."
Merchan became an acting justice in Manhattan Supreme Court, presiding over felony criminal cases, in 2009.
Trump also reiterated his claim that "there's no problem here" and "no crime" in the case.
"It's really a sad day for the country. It's sad for New York," he told reporters.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mountaineer on May 13, 2024, 10:38:41 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 12:52:30 pm
DAY 17: Michael Cohen's Testifies
Speaker Johnson to appear at courthouse amid Trump hush money trial by Mychael Schnell - 05/14/24 8:05 AM ET
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) will appear at the Manhattan courthouse Tuesday as former President Trump sits for another day of his hush money trial, a source confirmed to The Hill.
Johnson is the latest Republican lawmaker to visit the court amid Trump’s ongoing criminal trial, which has kept him largely off the campaign trail as he vies for another term in the White House.
His expected appearance was first reported by Punchbowl News.
The Speaker’s trip to New York, however, comes less than one week after the House overwhelmingly blocked an attempt by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) to oust him from office, an outcome that some have in-part attributed to the former president’s backing of Johnson.
Trump voiced support for Johnson on a number of occasions amid the ouster threat — including during a joint appearance at Mar-a-Lago — and he urged Republicans to vote to table Greene’s motion to vacate. That Truth Social post, however, published minutes after the vote closed.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 01:38:16 pm
2 minutes ago Trump arrives to court with son Eric, and entourage of supporters
Trump just entered the room followed by son Eric Trump and supporters like entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and North Dakota governor Doug Burgum.
Michael Cohen's testimony will resume shortly.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 01:39:26 pm
29 minutes ago Trump accuses judge of 'MAKING BIG MONEY OFF OF THIS SCAM' in early morning post By David Spector
Former President Donald Trump accused Judge Juan Merchan of being "TOTALLY CORRUPT" in an early morning rant on his Truth Social account.
"Judge Merchan is TOTALLY COMPROMISED, CONFLICTED, AND CORRUPT," Trump said.
The former president went on to accuse the judge in his "hush money" trial of "MAKING BIG MONEY OFF OF THIS SCAM AND ITS OUTCOME."
Trump has been fined numerous times for violating the judge's gag order and Merchan has even threatened him with jail time.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 01:41:09 pm
Speaker Mike Johnson will address 'sham prosecution' of Trump outside courthouse, days after surviving MTG's ouster attempt
House Speaker Mike Johnson's move to join Trump's court entourage is an extraordinary move for the man who is third in line for the presidency, and is another sign of the total embrace Trump is getting from congressional Republicans.
It comes days after days after the House rejected an effort by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) to remove Johnson from office through a procedural motion.
Trump sided with the speaker in the spat, meeting with Johnson and posting in advance that 'this is not the time' to move to vacate the chair, as Greene was proposing.
The Speaker's office left no doubt which side he is on.
'The Speaker will then address media outside of the ongoing sham prosecution of President Trump,' his office announced.
'Speaker Johnson will address the political persecution of the 45th President of the United States by President Biden’s weaponized Department of Justice and the left-wing Manhattan district attorney.'
Speaker Mike Johnson will address 'sham prosecution' of Trump outside courthouse, days after surviving MTG's ouster attempt
House Speaker Mike Johnson's move to join Trump's court entourage is an extraordinary move for the man who is third in line for the presidency, and is another sign of the total embrace Trump is getting from congressional Republicans.
It comes days after days after the House rejected an effort by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) to remove Johnson from office through a procedural motion.
Trump sided with the speaker in the spat, meeting with Johnson and posting in advance that 'this is not the time' to move to vacate the chair, as Greene was proposing.
The Speaker's office left no doubt which side he is on.
'The Speaker will then address media outside of the ongoing sham prosecution of President Trump,' his office announced.
'Speaker Johnson will address the political persecution of the 45th President of the United States by President Biden’s weaponized Department of Justice and the left-wing Manhattan district attorney.'
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 01:54:43 pm
08:41 Prosecutors ask for a bench conference at the start of the day
Before things can get underway, the prosecution asks for a bench conference. Lawyers for Trump and the government huddle with Judge Merchan. Trump chats with lawyer Emil Bove while Todd Blanche speaks with the judge.
Members of Trump's entourage are chatting, with Doug Burgum rustling in his seat and Vivek Ramaswamy turning backward to speak to Lara and Eric Trump.
Ramaswamy also flashes a cell phone, which was in his hand.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 01:55:13 pm
08:47 Michael Cohen is back on the stand - and brings testimony inside the Oval Office
Michael Cohen is back on the stand. He began his testimony with a 'good morning' to prosecutor Susan Hoffinger.
After speaking about an internal document related to invoices, he speaks about his Feb. 8, 2017 trip to the White House.
'I was stiting with President Trump. And he asked me if I was okay. He asked me if I needed money. I said no all good because I can get a check,' Cohen said.
One piece of evidence establishes that he is as giddy to be there as any tourist. Cohen is seen posing in front of the podium in the White House briefing room.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:01:03 pm
a few seconds ago 'No ma'am,' Cohen says when asked whether his 'legal retainers' were actually for legal work By Ben Kochman
Cohen is speaking calmly and slowly and responding to the prosecutors' questions with short "yes, ma'am and "no, ma'am" answers.
He testified that payments earmarked by Trump's company as "legal retainers" were actually for "the reimbursement to me of the hush money fee" to Daniels, plus a bonus and other non-legal-related fees.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:01:59 pm
08:58 Cohen testifies that about a 'false' record where he submitted an invoice for 'services rendered'
Cohen testifies about a Feb. 14, 2017 memo.
'Pursuant to the retainer agreement, kindly remit payment for services rendered for the months of January and Februaryu, 2017,' it says. Cohen says he created the invoice after speaking to Jeff McConney, who reported to Allen Weisselberg.
Cohen had asked McConney via email how much the monthly agreement was for. '$35,000,' he responded.
'Does the invoice say that it’s for services rendered not only for the month of January but February,' Hoffinger asks. Cohen agrees.
'In truth was this invoice for any services that you had rendered for those two months?' she asked him. Cohen says it wasn't.
He gets asked if the reimbursement for services rendered was a truthful statement. He says it isn't.
'The reimbursement to me for the hush money fee as well as Red Finch and the bonus,' he said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:08:20 pm
Quote
09:03 'Is that a false record?': Cohen is going through monthly bills, and check stubs he got – some signed by 'Donald J. Trump'
Hoffinger takes Cohen through a series of invoices, checks, and pay stubs.
She repeatedly asks him to answer, 'Is that a false record,' and he agrees. He also identifies signatures on checks he received, including one by 'Donald J. Trump,' and one by Donald Trump, Jr.
Cohen lists 'payment for services rendered' in monthly invoices that are continuing through the spring and summer of 2017.
a few seconds ago 'No ma'am,' Cohen says when asked whether his 'legal retainers' were actually for legal work By Ben Kochman
Cohen is speaking calmly and slowly and responding to the prosecutors' questions with short "yes, ma'am and "no, ma'am" answers.
He testified that payments earmarked by Trump's company as "legal retainers" were actually for "the reimbursement to me of the hush money fee" to Daniels, plus a bonus and other non-legal-related fees.
One would think Cohen would know better than this. He is digging a hole he which will not be able to crawl back out.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 14, 2024, 02:20:04 pm
One would think Cohen would know better than this. He is digging a hole he which will not be able to crawl back out.
Lying under oath is a punishable offense.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:23:15 pm
4 minutes ago Cohen says he worked with Melania on Madame Tussauds figurine By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testified that he worked with Melania Trump on an agreement with the wax museum Madame Tussands, who wanted to create a figurines of her for the museum in 2017.
“As far as Melania, it had to deal with some trademarks or some Madame Tussands agreement,” Cohen said.
He then added: “I revised an agreement that Madame Tussands sent to her was to create her likeness and image for their museum.”
Cohen said he didn't bill for the work because "it wasn't enough work to have me send an invoice."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:25:11 pm
Quote
10 minutes ago Cohen confirms $420K reimbursement had been paid By Kyle Schnitzer
"The full reimbursement of $420,000 had been paid," Michael Cohen says, as prosecutors show the last invoice from December 2017.
Cohen testifies he had received 11 checks and deposited them.
Quote
a minute ago Cohen says he did more legal work for Trump in 2018 than he did in 2017, when company sent him phony 'retainer' funds
Cohen was just asked whether he did more legal work for Trump in 2018 than he did in 2017 -- when the Trump Organization paid him $420,000 for "legal services" he said did not happen.
But he said he wasn't paid for any of the legal work he did for Trump in 2018.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:26:26 pm
a few seconds ago Cohen says he worked less than 10 hours for Trump in 2017
Earlier, Cohen testified that he thinks he spent less than 10 hours on work for Trump in 2017 — the year when he received $420,000 from the Trump Organization.
Prosecutors asked Cohen whether the $420,000 he was paid had anything to do with the limited work he did for Trump in 2017, Cohen answered: "No, ma'am."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:30:39 pm
Quote
a few seconds ago Cohen: I continued to lie for Trump 'out of loyalty and in order to protect him'
Michael Cohen testified that he continued to lie for Donald Trump "out of loyalty and in order to protect him."
Cohen was testifying about holding the title of Trump's personal counsel.
He said he held the role for "approximately 15 months."
Quote
a few seconds ago Cohen says he lied to Congress about Trump Tower Russia plan to 'protect' Trump
Cohen admitted that he lied to protect Trump several times, "out of loyalty and in order to protect him.”
Cohen testified Tuesday that he lied to Congress about Trump's role in an aborted project to build a Trump Tower in Russia, "because I was staying on Mr. Trump's message that there was no Russia, Russia Russia."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:34:16 pm
a few seconds ago Cohen pressed people to lie for Trump about deals with Karen McDougal, Stormy Daniels
Cohen testified that in 2018 he continued to tell people to lie about the hush money deals with Karen McDougal and Stormy Daniels.
One of the names mentioned was Keith Davidson, Stormy Daniels' lawyer.
Cohen said he did it "in order to protect Mr. Trump."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:42:58 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:46:00 pm
a minute ago Cohen says he knows Stormy's statement about hush money was false because he 'paid it'
Michael Cohen admitted that he pressured Keith Davidson to have Stormy Daniels sign a statement denying she was paid hush money — as Cohen admitted it was false and he would know.
Prosecutors asked Cohen how he knew the statement was false, which he responded: "Because I'm the one who paid it."
The jury was shown a nervous text exchange by Cohen and Davidson where Cohen can be seen pleading and pressuring Davidson to get her to go on the "Hannity" show to deny the allegations.
Cohen sent blocks of texts like "Please call me" and "C'mon!" when he got frustrated. He described it as "persistence."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 14, 2024, 02:46:39 pm
Even us "nose holders" are rooting for him. Good job dims..... galvanizing support here for DJT is one of those extreme examples of invoking the laws of unintended consequences.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:48:20 pm
a minute ago Cohen admits 'misleading' Federal Election Commission about hush money payout
Cohen testified that a law firm repping him, McDermott Will and Emery, wrote a "misleading" letter in 2018 to federal authorities who were asking questions about his $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels.
The letter says that neither the Trump Organization nor the Trump campaign was "a party" to the transaction. But in fact, it was the "Donald J Trump revocable trust" that reimbursed Cohen for the hush money, trial evidence shows.
Cohen told jurors Tuesday that "omitted" this in the letter to the FEC to "protect" Trump, and "stay on message."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 02:52:12 pm
a few seconds ago Trump keeps his eyes closed during Cohen's testimony
Donald Trump remains lounged back in his chair with his eyes closed as Michael Cohen continues to testify.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:02:29 pm
09:57 Appeals court rejects Trump's bid to overturn gag order
While Cohen is testifying a mid-level appeals court has denied Trump's latest effort to throw out the gag order that has been imposed on him.
Trump asserted the order violated his right to free speech and left him unable to respond to criticisms from people like Cohen.
The order, imposed by Justice Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the trial, prohibits Trump from making public comments about jurors, witnesses, and families of the judge and prosecutors if meant to interfere with the case.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:05:13 pm
:shrug:
a minute ago Vivek Ramswamy keeps looking at his phone while in court
Vivek Ramswamy had his head down glued to his phone before finally shuffling the device into his right jacket pocket — only to pull it out two minutes later.
At one moment, his phone was clearly visible over the wooden barrier separating Trump and the courtroom.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 14, 2024, 03:06:40 pm
09:57 Appeals court rejects Trump's bid to overturn gag order
While Cohen is testifying a mid-level appeals court has denied Trump's latest effort to throw out the gag order that has been imposed on him.
Trump asserted the order violated his right to free speech and left him unable to respond to criticisms from people like Cohen.
The order, imposed by Justice Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the trial, prohibits Trump from making public comments about jurors, witnesses, and families of the judge and prosecutors if meant to interfere with the case.
Kind of moot now, that Trump has smartly started using high profile surrogates to get his message across.
If anything, a subdued restrained Trump is much more of an appeal to the electorate. LOL... Backfiring on the dims again. :silly:
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: catfish1957 on May 14, 2024, 03:11:04 pm
a minute ago Vivek Ramswamy keeps looking at his phone while in court
Vivek Ramswamy had his head down glued to his phone before finally shuffling the device into his right jacket pocket — only to pull it out two minutes later.
At one moment, his phone was clearly visible over the wooden barrier separating Trump and the courtroom.
Name one single Millennial who isn't addicted to their phone.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:11:17 pm
a few seconds ago Cohen testifies about being raided by the FBI in 2019: 'Concerned, despondent, angry'
Cohen is testifying about when the FBI raided him on April 9, 2019 — describing that he was frightened and "concerned, despondent, [and] angry."
Cohen said he was staying at the Lowes Regency because his apartment had been flooded by the apartment in the floor above when officials arrived at the apartment.
When asked how he was feeling at the time, Cohen responded he was "scared"
"How to describe your life being turned upside down. Concerned, despondent, angry," Cohen said.
He said he found out that the feds raided his apartment, law offices and a TD Bank safety deposit box he had just opened to store valuables while his apartment was under construction.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:20:40 pm
Quote
4 minutes ago 'Don't worry, stay tough,' Cohen says Trump told him in call after 2018 FBI raid
After FBI agents raided his home in 2018, Cohen says Trump called him on his cell phone and told him not to worry.
"He said, don't worry, I'm the president of the United States. Don't worry, there is nothing here. Stay tough, you are going to be ok," Cohen recalled.
Cohen was then asked if that was the last time he spoke directly to Trump.
"Yes," Cohen replied.
Trump had his eyes closed was leaning back in his chair during Cohen's testimony.
Quote
2 minutes ago 'Don't flip': Cohen responds to Trump's tweets about Cohen in 2018
Cohen read the series of tweets to the jury, and was asked by prosecutors about how he interpreted them.
"Stay in fold. Stay loyal. I have you, you're a fine person. Don't flip," Cohen said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:21:48 pm
Quote
3 minutes ago Cohen: 'Mr. Trump did not want me to cooperate with the government'
"That Mr. Trump did not want me to cooperate with the government. Certainly not provide any information or flip," Cohen said right before the morning break.
Quote
3 minutes ago Court takes morning break
A brief morning break and we'll be back soon.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:22:45 pm
Rob Crilly @robcrilly · 9m Michael Cohen just choked up as he described April 2018 FBI raid. He then describes call with Trump: 'He said don't worry. I'm the president of the United States. There's nothing here... stay tough. You are going to be OK.' Cohen says they never spoke again.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:31:28 pm
Quote
10:10 Prosecution case falling 'significantly short' says legal expert
Legal scholar Jonathan Turley, a professor at George Washington University Law School, is not impressed with Cohen's testimony. He tells Fox News:
It's almost as if he (Cohen) thinks there should have been a second lawyer watching him and advising Trump if he could believe what he (Cohen) was saying.
He was the lawyer. He as drafting it. He was crafting these transactions.
And we are still significantly short of any showing of intention to defraud to hide a crime, which has still not been defined by the prosecutors.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:33:42 pm
10:25 Cohen asked about Trump 2018 Tweet about people who 'flip' to assist the government
Cohen got asked about an infamous 2018 Tweet after the FBI raid where Trump vouched for Cohen and said he wouldn't flip, amid a New York Times report on how he might respond.
'The New York Times and a third rate reporter named Maggie Haberman, known as a Crooked H flunkie who I don’t speak to and have nothing to do with, are going out of their way to destroy Michael Cohen and his relationship with me in the hope that he will “flip,” Trump wrote, in a tweet that the jury heard, with Haberman sitting in the coutroom.
After bashing the paper and its sources, Trump calls Cohen 'a fine person with a wonderful family. Michael is a businessman for his own account/lawyer who I have always liked & respected. Most people will flip if the Government lets them out of trouble, even if..it means lying or making up stories. Sorry, I don’t see Michael doing that despite the horrible Witch Hunt and the dishonest media!'
Hoffinger then asked Cohen who Trump was communicating the message to. 'To me,' he said. He said the message was: 'Stay in the fold. Stay loyal. I have you. You’re a fine person. Don’t flip.'
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:48:11 pm
10 minutes ago Cohen resumes testifying after morning break
Michael Cohen has returned to the witness stand.
Quote
2 minutes ago Cohen was concerned to work with attorney tied to Rudy Giuliani By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testified that he was concerned to work with attorney Robert Costello after the lawyer told him about his close ties to Rudy Giuliani.
Cohen said he was concerned that “anything I said would get back to him," referring to Trump.
Prosecutors asked about Costello who Cohen said told him that "he was incredibly close to Rudy Giuliani"
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:55:36 pm
a minute ago Andrew Giuliani reacts to dad Rudy being mentioned in court By kschnitzernyp
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 03:56:07 pm
a few seconds ago 'You are loved...Sleep well tonight,' Rudy's lawyer emailed Cohen during FBI probe
Cohen read aloud an email in which Bob Costello, an attorney for Rudy Giuliani, told Cohen "you are loved” amid a federal law enforcement probe.
“Sleep well tonight, you have friends in high places,” the email added.
Cohen was then asked what Costello meant by "you are loved."
"By President Trump," he testified.
Costello also spoke to Cohen about setting up a back channel of communication between Cohen and Trump during the probe, Cohen testified.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:12:26 pm
7 minutes ago Who is Robert Costello? Trump loyalist wrapped up in hush money case By Tamar Lapin
Cohen testified that he was pushed to hire criminal defense attorney Robert "Bob" Costello -- a longtime Trump ally with ties to Rudy Giuliani -- following the 2018 FBI raid on his hotel room.
Costello, at the request of Trump's team, testified to the Manhattan grand jury that ultimately voted to indict the ex-president.
After his testimony in March 2023, Costello blasted Cohen -- the prosecution's star witness -- telling reporters his former client had a "lie, cheat, steal" mindset.
"I'm trying to tell the truth to the grand jury," Costello said. "If they want to go after Donald Trump and they have solid evidence, then so be it. Michael Cohen is not solid evidence."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:13:40 pm
11:09 Cohen huddles with family amid 'pressure' campaign
Cohen decided not to work with Costello, eventually hiring other lawyers.
He never told Costello about the Stormy Daniels matter, he said.
'I didn’t trust him. Meaning Bob Costello. And I still remained loyal to Mr. Trump,' he said.
Cohen ultimately decided to make his break after speaking to his family.
'My wife my daughter my son all said to me. Why are you holding on to this loyalty? What are you doing. We’re supposed to be your first loyalty,' he said.
Asked about his decision, he said he decided 'that it was about time to listen to them. To my wife my daughter my son and the country.'
By April he would plead guilty to crimes in federal court.
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:14:37 pm
11:10 Trump surrogates stump outside of courthouse for former president while wearing matching outfits
Multiple Republican politicians dawned blue suits with red ties while delivering stump speeches in support of Donald Trump outside of the courthouse.
Former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Reps. Cory Mills and Byron Donalds all spoke out about the president's hush money trial.
They condemned the trial as politically motivated and illegitimate.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:15:05 pm
a minute ago 'I would not lie for President Trump any longer,' Cohen tells jurors
By the time he implicated Trump in his 2018 guilty plea in Manhattan federal court, Cohen decided he would no longer lie for Trump, he testified.
“I made a decision, based again on a conversation with my family, that I would not lie for President Trump any longer,” he said, shifting in his chair to face the jurors.
We're nearing what's likely to be the end of prosecutors' questions for him.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:23:30 pm
3 minutes ago 'Worst day of my life': Cohen describes pleading guilty to tax charges By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testified that it was the "worst day of my life" when he pleaded guilty to tax charges and making false statements to a financial institution.
The case was not related to Trump.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:27:20 pm
a few seconds ago Alina Habba passes note to Trump's attorneys
Alina Habba was seen passing a note to Susan Necheles through two people sitting behind Trump.
The note was then passed down the line to Todd Blanche.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:36:18 pm
11:26 Cohen testifies about serving time after his guilty plea
Cohen testifies about matters alrady in the public record – that he served time in jail and paid fines after his guilty plea.
He had already stated in court that the tax related charges he pleaded to did not involve Trump. They were for an unrelated business matter.
He said he was given a sentence of 36 months of incarceration, and paid the IRS '1,394,000.'
He ended up serving 13 months due to 'comorbidities' during covid.
He also paid a pair of $50,000 fines.
Then he described his 2019 testimony to Congress, where he revealed details became key to Trump's fraud trial.
'I apologized to congress I apologized to the country I apologized to my family.'
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:37:02 pm
Quote
11:17 Cohen describes 'pressure campaign' using 'spyish' language to get him to cooperate
Cohen disclosed the details of a 'pressure campaign' to get him to cooperate.
It was the backdoor deals and coersion that led to him turning on President Trump, despite years of loyalty, he explained.
He was describing an email communication with Costello where he didn't state Trump's name outright.
Cohen told the court that the reason behind that was 'to be covert.
'It’s all back channel, spyish. Didn’t want to put in anybody’s name,' he went on.
Cohen continued to detail correspondence with Costello who said Trump and Guiliani were trying to throw him under the bus.
'If you are really believe you are not being supported by your former boss, you should make your position known,' Costello advised Cohen.
'This is part of the pressure campaign,' Cohen said in court.
'The president still supports you, do not listen to what the journalists say and stay in the fold. Don’t flip, don’t speak, don’t cooperate.'
Quote
11:16 Judge delivers jury instruction
Judge Merchan tells the jury not to consider Cohen's guilty plea. He says it can assist the jury in assesssing Cohen's credibilty as a witness, and for 'context,' but for 'those purposes only.'
Merchan has read several similar instructions today.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:38:18 pm
5 minutes ago Trump exhibits behavior normally associated with sleeping as Cohen testifies By Ben Kochman
After being more animated earlier in the day, Donald Trump was slouched deep into his chair at the defense table, his eyes closed, for more than 20 minutes while Michael Cohen testifies.
Trump's lawyer Emil Bove reached over Trump at some point to pass a note to Todd Blanche, another lawyer. Trump did not react.
Whether Trump is actually asleep, or whether he's engaging in some sort form of silent protest, is hard to say for sure.
But this is behavior consistent with someone who is asleep.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:39:51 pm
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:52:08 pm
Quote
4 minutes ago Cohen says he started 'Mea Culpa' podcast while on home confinement By Kyle Schnitzer
Cohen said he started his podcast "Mea Culpa" while on home confinement.
He said he named the podcast because it was "his responsibility" and it is his initials.
Quote
a few seconds ago Cohen invited Stormy Daniels on podcast to make 'mea culpa' to her
Cohen testtfied he invited Stormy Daniels on his podcast because he "thought it was a good time to speak to her and make a mea culpa to her”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 04:58:33 pm
a minute ago Cross-examination of Michael Cohen to begin after lunch break
Court will resume after the lunch break with the cross-examination of Michael Cohen.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 05:25:35 pm
Quote
17 minutes ago Cohen says he regrets breaking his 'moral compass' working for Trump By Ben Kochman
In the last question asked by prosecutors before the lunch break, Michael Cohen said he regrets breaking his "moral compass" with his work for Donald Trump.
"I regret doing things for him that I should not have, lying, bullying people in order to effectuate the goal," he testified.
"I don't regret working for the Trump Organization. As I expressed before, I had some very interesting and great times," he added. "But to keep the loyalty and to do things that he asked me to do, it violated my moral compass and I suffered a penalty, as did my family."
We'll be back with cross-examination at 2:15.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 14, 2024, 05:51:58 pm
11:10 Trump surrogates stump outside of courthouse for former president while wearing matching outfits
Multiple Republican politicians dawned blue suits with red ties while delivering stump speeches in support of Donald Trump outside of the courthouse.
Former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Reps. Cory Mills and Byron Donalds all spoke out about the president's hush money trial.
They condemned the trial as politically motivated and illegitimate.
As a side note; it's too bad that Donalds lives in FL -- he'd make an excellent VP
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:16:50 pm
4 minutes ago Prosecutors say Michael Cohen will be their last witness By Post Staff
Michael Cohen will be the prosecution's 20th and final witness, Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass told the judge.
Prosecutors on Friday has said they would be calling Cohen and one other witness, but their plans appear to have changed.
It's unclear if the defense will call any witnesses.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:18:08 pm
11:51 Prosecution prepares Cohen for a bruising cross-examination from Trump's lawyers
From Rob Crilly, Senior Political Reporter inside the courtroom
The prosecution is working hard now to inoculate Cohen against what will be a difficult cross-examination.
In particular, Cohen pled guilty to tax evasion and making a false statement to a bank.
But during a recent Trump civil case, under oath, he said the guilty plea was essentially a lie, that he wasn't guilty, making him a perjuror in one court or the other.
That is a problem for the prosecution which now has him at the center of its case. What will the jury make of the idea that this is a man who lies to courts?
The prosecution is trying to tease out that Cohen has accepted the facts of the case against him, that there was an omission in his bank forms and an error in his taxes.
His point, he explains, is that for a first time offender with a clean tax history, prosecutors came down on him in an unusually heavy way.
The prosecution now has to deal with the fact he lost his law license and is now an outspoken critic of Trump - issues that will all be emphasized when the defense gets its chance to ask the questions.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:26:00 pm
13:14 Trump is back in the courtroom and Cohen is back on the stand
Former President Trump is back in the courtroom.
He looked toward the media and gave a slight nod as he came into the courtroom. Included in his entourage are Erica and Lara Trump, and lawyer Alina Habba, as well as Boris Epshteyn.
Vivek Ramaswamy is still here, seated a few seats down from Lara Trump.
Cohen is retaking the witness stand for the cross-examination.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:29:12 pm
6 minutes ago 'Crying little s--t': Blanche brings up Cohen's TikTok immediately during cross-examination By Kyle Schnitzer
Todd Blanche came out swinging against Michael Cohen — immediately bringing up his TikTok posts that he's harped upon during the trial.
Blanche asked Cohen whether he recently described Trump as "crying little s--t" on TikTok in an April 23 post.
"It sounds like something I would say," Cohen said, before prosecutors objected.
Blanche then asked Cohen about a post where he mentioned himself and attorney Susan Necheles before more objections.
The judge then had a brief sidebar with lawyers and ordered the questions and answers stricken from the record.
"The questions are stricken. I don't believe there was an answer," the judge said.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:34:22 pm
4 minutes ago Fired-up Todd Blanche brings up TikTok post in which Cohen calls Trump 'dictator douchebag'
Todd Blanche -- substantially more fired up than we've ever seen him -- confronted Michael Cohen right at the start of today's cross-examine over a TikTok tirade last month in which he called Trump a "dictator douchebag."
"Sounds like something I said," Cohen responded, speaking calmly and slowly.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:34:45 pm
13:30 Blanche to Cohen: Why did you say Trump 'belongs in a f***ing cage' like an animal?
Cohen is confronted with his own foul-mouthed attacks
Jurors are showing no signs of blushing at Blanche’s series of direct and even profane questions using Cohen’s own words.
The lawyer is establishing a record of Cohen speaking about the case despite the judge’s admonitions.
‘You referred to President Trump as a dictator douchebag, didn’t you?’ he said.
‘Sounds like something I said,’ was Cohen’s response.‘You referred to President Trump when he left the courtroom,’ saying he ‘goes right into that little cage, which is where he belongs in a f****** cage like an animal,’ was Blanche’s next question.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: 240B on May 14, 2024, 06:36:58 pm
The Judge is just another attorney for the prosecution. All the prosecution has to do is to 'OBJECT!' about anything, and it will automatically be granted.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:41:15 pm
13:33 Trump is unimpressed so far
The cross-examination has started with fireworks. Cohen is being presented with things he has said or posted about Trump or this trial or the defense lawyers. The public gallery in the overflow room has erupted in laughter. Reporters are on the edge of their seats, waiting to see whether Cohen gets tripped up. The judge has made several interventions as objections have flowed.
Only one person is unmoved. Trump is sitting back in his chair, eyes closed. Either he had a good lunch and is suitably relaxed. Or he is putting on a show of how little he cares about any of this.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:54:43 pm
Quote
2 minutes ago Cohen testifies he wants to see Trump convicted in hush money case
"Do you want to see President Trump convicted in this case?" asked Trump attorney Todd Blanche.
"Sure," Michael Cohen said, drawing laughs from the overflow room.
Quote
4 minutes ago Cohen: I spend six days a week talking about Trump on TikTok By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen testifies that he charges $5.99 for monthly subscriptions to his TikTok, but doesn't spend every day of the week talking about Donald Trump on the social media platform.
“Well, I only do it six days a week," Cohen said, when responding to a question about how many nights a week he speaks about Trump.
He then admitted that he talks about Trump "six days a week.”
Cohen said he started the TikTok account six weeks ago.
Quote
9 minutes ago Cohen says he doesn't know how many times he's been told not to speak about Trump case By Kyle Schnitzer
Trump attorney Todd Blanche pressed Michael Cohen on how often he has been warned by the Manhattan District Attorney's office not to speak about the "hush money" case.
Cohen testified he was told that it was "probably better off if you don't speak about it."
Blanche then tried to twist Cohen's words, insinuating they don't "direct you" to not speak about the case.
"Well, I do have a First Amendment right. I can speak," Cohen shot back.
He said he doesn't recall how many times prosecutors have asked him to refrain from talking about the case since the indictment last year
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:55:40 pm
13:49 Blanche tears into Cohen for memory lapse
Cohen, an experienced attorney, is relying on a common answer in testimony and depositions: saying he doesn’t recall to multiple questions by Blanche. Blanche is trying to nail him down on repeated warnings from prosecutors to not talk about the case, or about other matters where he assisted prosecutors.
‘No sir, I do not recall that either,’ he said when asked if he got a warning from the DA. ‘Because I don’t recall ever agreeing not to go on television.’
You don’t recall the district attorney telling you that you were unwittingly helping President Trump going on TV?’ Blanche asked. ‘No sir, Cohen said, his voice dropping to measurably in volume.
That prompted Blanche to ask how he could firmly recall details of years-old conversations with Trump.
Cohen stood firm on his right to talk, despite not remembering getting admonished. ‘I do have a First Amendment right. I can speak,’ he said.
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 06:59:45 pm
a minute ago Jury shown merch from Cohen's website including Trump t-shirt, 'Convict 45' pin By Kyle Schnitzer
Jurors were shown images of merchandise that appears on Michael Cohen's "Mea Culpa" podcast website — including a pin that suggests convicting Donald Trump.
According to the images, a "Convict 45" enamel pin is being sold for $17.
For $22, you can purchase a Send Him To The Big House Not The White House" coffee cup.
Cohen was asked by Trump attorney Todd Blanche about a shirt depicting Trump in an orange jumpsuit behind bars. Blanche complained to the judge about the shirt last week.
"You actually wore that t-shirt last week on your TikTok Wednesday night," Blanche asked, which Cohen said he was wearing it.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 07:00:27 pm
a few seconds ago Cohen testifies that he still lives in a building with Trump's name on it By Ben Kochman
"You still live in a building with Trump's name on it, correct?" Todd Blanche asked Michael Cohen.
"I do," Cohen replied.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 07:06:52 pm
2 minutes ago After perking up briefly, Trump now has eyes closed again
Trump perked up at the start of cross-examination, chatting animatedly to lawyers on both sides of him at the defense table.
But now he's slouched again deep in his chair with his eyes closed, leaning back.
He has not opened his eyes for the past 10 minutes.
Quote
a few seconds ago Cohen: 'I was knee deep into the cult of Donald Trump' in 2015 By Kyle Schnitzer
“At that time, I was knee deep into the cult of Donald Trump, yes," Michael Cohen testified when being asked about comments of praise he made in 2015 about Trump.
Blanche asked him if he was "obsessed" with Trump during that period, but Cohen wouldn't budge.
“I don’t think I’d categorize the word obsessed. I admired him tremendously,” Cohen said.
Quote
a minute ago Cohen says he read 'Art of the Deal' twice and called it a 'masterpiece'
Todd Blanche has used part of his time today to elicit testimony from Cohen that Cohen read Trump's book "Art Of The Deal" twice.
"You have called it a masterpiece?" Blanche asked.
"Yes," Cohen replied.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 07:13:37 pm
14:04 Trump is asleep. Cohen is giving deadpan answers
Trump appears to have fallen asleep, while Cohen is keeping his cool.
The former president has his eyes closed with his chin resting on his chest.
Blanche brought up a February 2023 interview Cohen did on CNN with Don Lemon in which he said that the Manhattan District Attorney’s office asked him to hand over his two phones.
Blanche said that Cohen had ‘very specific recollections’ about calls with Trump in but ‘no recollection’ of promising prosecutors he wouldn’t go on TV.
In a flat voice, Cohen replied: ‘I don’t recall even having these conversations about not going on television’
Blanche tried asking the question again. Cohen replied: ‘I recall the conversations with President Trump at the time’
Blanche asked if Cohen asked if Cohen recalled a conversation with prosecutors last March in which they said ‘how important it was for you to stop talking?
Cohen said: ‘I don’t recall anything because I don’t recall agreeing not to go on television’
Blanche asked: ‘You don’t recall the District Attorney telling you you were unwittingly helping President Trump by going on TV?’
Cohen said: ‘No, sir’.
Cohen agreed that he had done about 200 episodes of his podcast and Trump was ‘mentioned in every single one’.
Turning to his posts on TikTok, Cohen said he started doing them to ‘vent because I have a difficult time sleeping, so I found an outlet’.
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 07:14:12 pm
14:06 The defense strategy is clear
Todd Blanche is leading the cross-examination. He has asked Cohen about the way prosecutors repeatedly asked him to stop commenting on the case, about the ways in which he might have monetized his views on Trump, including selling a $35 T-shirt depicting Trump in an orange jumpsuit behind bars.
What he hasn't asked him about yet is any of the evidence he presented about hush money payments and how he was reimbursed.
The strategy is clear: The defense wants to paint Cohen as an unreliable witness, who is obsessed by Trump and is consumed by hatred.
It makes for a spectacle. Whether it works is up to the seven men and five women of the jury.
MOL
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 07:39:27 pm
8 minutes ago Court breaks for 15 minutes
We'll be back at 3:45 p.m.
Quote
10 minutes ago Cohen testified that he turned to nightly TikTok rants as a sleep aid
Cohen testified today that he goes on TikTok for live streams six nights a week to "vent" and as a way to deal with struggles winding down at night.
"I was having a difficult time sleeping," he testified. He also described his TikToks as an "outlet."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 07:50:07 pm
14:16 Jurors focus on Cohen as he defends anti-Trump merch: 'Send him to the big house, not the White House!'
After admitting that 'sure' he would like to see Trump convicted, Cohen is forced to confront anti-Trump items for sale on the web site for his podcast.
That includes a t-shirt that depicts Trump in an orange jump suit behind bars that Cohen was asked about.
It's part of an effort by defense lawyers to paint him as biased.
'Sure,' Cohen responded, with two jurors immedaitely turning their heads to catch his answer.
'If you go to the section that says mea culpa this shirt is available for sale. That’s one item,' Cohen said, getting in a plug with his answer.
'You actually wore that t-shirt last week on your ticktoc didn’t you on Wednesday night" Blanche asked trying to land a blow with the question.
'I did,' Cohen said, admitting to information that was widely available.
'Actually encouraging peole to go buy it right?' Blanche asked.
'Yes. It’s part of the merch store,' was Cohen's dry response.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 08:09:17 pm
Quote
6 minutes ago Still no word on if Trump will testify By Post Staff
It's still unclear if Trump will take the stand.
Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan asked Trump attorney Todd Blanche if there was any indication the ex-president would testify, to which the lawyer responded "no."
Cohen, who is now being cross-examined by Blanche, will be prosecutors' last witness after which the defense will have a chance to put on their case.
Quote
5 minutes ago 'Cheeto-dusted cartoon villain': Cohen confirms Trump digs on his podcast
Blanche brought up Cohen's statements on his Mea Culpa podcast where he called Trump a "boorish cartoon misogynist."
"Sounds like something I would say," Cohen answered.
Other confirmed statements included “Cheeto-dusted cartoon villain."
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 08:19:26 pm
Quote
a minute ago Cohen composed as he testifies about home confinement
Cohen is remaining calm as he testifies about being on home confinement. He said that he would get three hours a week where he could be outside of his home.
He testified that he first wore an ankle bracelet which eventually became a phone, where authorities would call him randomly to check in on him.
Quote
3 minutes ago Trump attorney pushes Cohen on 'lie' during Mueller probe
Before the break, Trump attorney Todd Blanche pushed Cohen to admit he lied during the Robert Mueller special counsel investigation on Russian interference in the 2016 election.
“Yes, the info I gave was not accurate,” Cohen conceded, referring to bogus info he gave investigators years ago about the Trump Tower real estate project in Moscow.
“Is not accurate information a lie?” Blanche probed.
“Sure. It was inaccurate, yes," Cohen said, prompting Blanche to push "Was it a lie?"
After more back-and-forth, Cohen eventually admitted: “Sure, I’ll say it’s a lie.”
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 08:23:57 pm
OKAY....what is the crime Trump committed?....when Trump was arraigned what did he plea not-guilty to???? How come no one asks that question?
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 08:24:54 pm
3 minutes ago Cohen still on supervised release until later this year By Kyle Schnitzer
Michael Cohen confirmed that he is still on supervised release until November.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 08:29:48 pm
4 minutes ago Court breaks for day with Michael Cohen still on the stand
We'll be back Thursday at 9:30 a.m. with more cross-examination of Michael Cohen.
Court is off on all Wednesdays.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: libertybele on May 14, 2024, 08:42:25 pm
OKAY....what is the crime Trump committed?....when Trump was arraigned what did he plea not-guilty to???? How come no one asks that question?
Being a person of low character and even in NY that is not a crime.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: mystery-ak on May 14, 2024, 09:18:54 pm
Trump takes shot at Alan Dershowitz over being a Democrat: 'Ought to have your brain examined'
Donald Trump took a shot at Alan Dershowitz over identifying as a Democrat as the ex-president read aloud several news clippings after he left court on Tuesday.
"Alan Dershowitz, a great gentleman," Trump began outside the courtroom. "This is election interference at the most obvious...and every American no matter whether you're on the Trump team or against him, whatever political affiliation it is and he goes on to say he's a Democrat, he can't be right about everything.
"He's making a big mistake. If you're Jewish, and you're a Democrat -- and that includes Alan Dershowitz -- you ought to have your head examined when you see what's going on with Israel."
The former president proceeded to read several more news clippings that sided with him in the "hush money" trial.
Title: Re: Live Thread: Trump's hush money trial begins in NYC
Post by: Right_in_Virginia on May 15, 2024, 06:36:46 am