During the cross-examination of Michael Cohen outside the White House or courthouse, a key moment unfolded as Trump's lawyer challenged Cohen on past misstatements and lies. The climax occurred when Trump's attorney focused on a phone call Cohen claimed to have had with Donald Trump in October 2016, around the time of the Stormy Daniels payment decision.
The attorney presented text messages between Cohen and Trump's security officer, Keith Schiller, revealing discussions about harassing phone calls Cohen received. Notably, at 8:02 p.m., Schiller advised Cohen to call him, leading to the alleged call between Cohen and Trump regarding the Stormy Daniels matter.
As the attorney pressed Cohen on the call's details, Cohen maintained his composure, insisting he ran everything past Trump. The intense moment saw the attorney pacing, raising his voice, and questioning Cohen's recollection, particularly focusing on his interactions with Trump in 2016.
The prosecution aims to establish Cohen as the link between Trump and the hush money payments, emphasizing the alleged falsification of records as the core crime. The cross-examination sought to undermine Cohen's credibility by highlighting his past lies, including admitting to perjury before a federal judge.
Despite the dramatic exchange, Cohen remained composed, answering questions while the attorney attempted to cast doubt on his testimony. The session is expected to continue for the full day, with the defense strategy centered on discrediting Cohen's statements to the jury.
