What's happened
Stormy Daniels, the adult film star involved in an alleged affair with former President Trump, faces cross-examination in his hush-money trial. The trial centers on payments made to Daniels to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 election campaign. Testimonies from key figures like Hope Hicks, Keith Davidson, and Gary Farro have shed light on the financial maneuvers and cover-up attempts related to the payments. The trial has garnered significant attention as Trump becomes the first US president to face criminal charges, including falsifying business records to hide the affair.
Why it matters
The ongoing hush-money trial involving Stormy Daniels and former President Trump is significant due to its implications on campaign finance laws, election expenses, and the alleged cover-up of an affair. The trial's revelations about financial chicanery, witness testimonies, and legal battles highlight the complexities of the case and its potential impact on Trump's legal troubles. The trial's outcome could have far-reaching consequences for Trump's political future, legal standing, and public perception.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Stormy Daniels faces further cross-examination in the hush-money trial, shedding light on the alleged affair with Trump. The New York Post reports on Trump's legal team's failed attempts to delay the trial, highlighting the significance of the case. Axios covers the jury selection process and the seating of 18 jurors, including six alternates, in the high-profile trial. Business Insider UK discusses the financial struggles of Trump's social-media company amid the legal battles, providing context on the broader implications for Trump's businesses.
How we got here
The hush-money trial stems from allegations that Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, paid Daniels $130,000 to keep quiet about her affair with Trump. The trial focuses on whether these payments constituted illegal campaign contributions and if Trump falsified business records to conceal them. Testimonies from key witnesses like Hope Hicks, Keith Davidson, and Gary Farro have provided insights into the financial transactions and cover-up attempts surrounding the payments. The trial marks a significant legal challenge for Trump, who faces multiple criminal indictments and legal battles.
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