During Trump's civil fraud trial in New York, Michael Cohen has been asked to explain his testimony where he admitted to lying when he pleaded guilty. Cohen clarified that his intention was to take responsibility for his actions, as he did not dispute the underlying facts of the case. He revealed that he felt pressured to accept a plea offer within 48 hours, or face the possibility of a detailed indictment that also involved his wife.
Prosecutor Susan Hoffinger intervened to clarify that when Cohen mentioned lying to the federal judge, he was not referring to falsely pleading guilty to the campaign finance crimes associated with Trump. This distinction is crucial in understanding the context of Cohen's statements during the trial.
The revelation of Cohen's explanation sheds light on the complexities of his legal situation and the pressures he faced during the plea bargaining process. It underscores the importance of understanding the nuances of legal proceedings and the impact of external factors on individuals involved in such high-profile cases.