During Tuesday's cross-examination, Michael Cohen, a former associate of Donald Trump, described his previous admiration for his ex-boss as being deeply involved in the 'cult of Donald Trump.' The pivotal question now is how the jury will perceive Cohen - as seeking redemption or revenge. The prosecution's star witness faced scrutiny for being evasive in his responses, with critics pointing out his reluctance to provide straightforward answers.
Experts suggest that Cohen's testimony has been scattershot and lacking a clear thematic focus. They emphasize the importance of highlighting Cohen's history of lying and his personal bias against Trump. The recent revelation linking Trump directly to the alleged crime of falsifying business records through Cohen's account of a conversation adds weight to the prosecution's case.
However, doubts linger over Cohen's credibility, given his past as a serial liar. The absence of key witness Allen Weisselberg, who is currently incarcerated, raises questions about potential testimony and the impact on the trial's outcome. The defense may exploit inconsistencies in Cohen's recollection of conversations with Trump to cast doubt on his reliability.
The looming issue of Weisselberg's availability poses a challenge for both sides, with the possibility of him invoking the Fifth Amendment complicating the proceedings. The defense's decision on calling additional witnesses hinges on the resolution of this matter, with experts cautioning against rushing to conclude the trial without solidifying the link between Trump and the alleged offenses.
As the trial progresses, the focus remains on corroborating Cohen's claims and navigating the complexities of witness testimony. The decision on whether Trump will testify is uncertain, with experts leaning towards the likelihood of him not taking the stand. The trial's outcome hinges on the jury's assessment of the evidence presented and the credibility of witnesses involved.
