With prosecutors’ hush money case against Donald Trump barreling toward its end, defense lawyers pressed former attorney Michael Cohen on his criminal history and past lies Thursday as they worked to convince jurors not to believe the star witness’ pivotal testimony.

Cohen was back in the hot seat for a third day of testimony as defense lawyers painted Trump’s fixer-turned-foe as a spurned former employee who will say whatever it takes to put the presumptive Republican presidential nominee behind bars. Cohen is prosecutors’ final witness — at least for now — as they try to prove Trump schemed to suppress a damaging story he feared would torpedo his 2016 presidential campaign and then falsified business records to cover it up. Cohen’s cross-examination is a crucial moment for Trump’s team to try to chip away at Cohen’s credibility, which could determine the former president’s fate in the case.

The Background of the Hush Money Case

Origins of the Case

The hush money case stems from allegations that Donald Trump arranged payments to silence individuals who claimed to have damaging information about him during his 2016 presidential campaign. The prosecution argues that these payments were intended to prevent potential scandals from derailing Trump’s bid for the presidency.

Cohen’s Involvement

Michael Cohen, once Trump’s personal lawyer and self-described fixer, played a central role in facilitating these payments. He initially denied any wrongdoing but later turned against Trump, cooperating with prosecutors and providing key testimony in the case.

The Prosecution’s Strategy

Key Testimony from Cohen

Prosecutors have relied heavily on Cohen’s testimony, which they believe is crucial in establishing a pattern of illegal conduct by Trump. Cohen’s insider knowledge and direct involvement in the alleged scheme make him a pivotal witness for the prosecution.

Supporting Evidence

In addition to Cohen’s testimony, the prosecution has presented a range of evidence, including financial records, emails, and recorded conversations, to support their claims. This evidence aims to corroborate Cohen’s statements and demonstrate a concerted effort to cover up the hush money payments.

The Defense’s Counterattack

Questioning Cohen’s Credibility

Trump’s defense team has focused on undermining Cohen’s credibility, highlighting his criminal history and instances of past dishonesty. They argue that Cohen’s testimony cannot be trusted, suggesting that he is motivated by a desire for revenge against Trump.

Painting Cohen as a Spurned Employee

Defense lawyers have portrayed Cohen as a disgruntled former employee, eager to see Trump punished. They assert that Cohen’s cooperation with prosecutors is driven by personal vendettas rather than a commitment to truth and justice.

The Crucial Cross-Examination

Defense’s Key Points

During cross-examination, defense attorneys have meticulously questioned Cohen about his past lies and criminal behavior. They have sought to cast doubt on his character and motives, emphasizing inconsistencies in his statements.

Cohen’s Responses

Cohen has maintained that his testimony is truthful and that he has nothing to gain by lying. He has admitted to his past mistakes but insists that his cooperation with prosecutors is an effort to atone for his wrongdoings.

The Stakes of the Case

Impact on Trump’s Political Future

The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Donald Trump’s political future. A conviction could damage his reputation and hinder his chances in any future presidential bids.

Legal Precedents

This case also holds the potential to set important legal precedents regarding campaign finance laws and the use of hush money payments. The verdict could influence how similar cases are handled in the future.

Public and Media Reactions

Media Coverage

The case has attracted extensive media coverage, with news outlets closely following every development. The public is keenly interested in the proceedings, given the high-profile nature of the individuals involved.

Public Opinion

Public opinion is divided, with Trump’s supporters viewing the case as a politically motivated attack, while his detractors see it as a long-overdue reckoning for alleged misconduct.

The hush money case against Donald Trump is reaching a critical juncture, with the defense working tirelessly to discredit Michael Cohen’s testimony. As the final witness for the prosecution, Cohen’s credibility is under intense scrutiny. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences, not only for Trump’s political career but also for the legal landscape surrounding campaign finance and hush money payments. As we await the jury’s decision, the nation watches closely, anticipating a verdict that could shape the future of American politics.