Donald Trump's defense team had ample time to prepare for the pivotal moment in history when they cross-examined Michael Cohen. Their goal was to challenge his credibility and convince the jury that he is untrustworthy. Cohen, Trump's former lawyer, faced intense scrutiny on the stand during the trial. The defense attempted to portray him as bitter, enraged, and driven by revenge. Cohen was confronted with derogatory remarks he had made about the former president, such as referring to him as a 'Cheeto-dusted cartoon villain' and a 'dictator D-bag'.
During the direct examination by prosecutors, Cohen provided detailed testimony about the 2018 FBI raid on his home, hotel room, and office. The raid was part of the investigation into hush money payments related to information uncovered in the Mueller probe. Trump's reaction to the raid was captured in a statement where he expressed outrage at the intrusion into his attorney's office, labeling it a 'disgraceful situation' and a 'witch hunt'.
Trump later reassured Cohen over the phone, telling him not to worry because he was the president of the United States and that everything would be okay. Despite Trump's reassurances, Cohen eventually decided to cooperate with authorities, pleading guilty to charges. This decision ultimately led to his testimony in court against his former boss.
