The clouds of legal jeopardy continue to darken over former President Donald Trump as he faces a highly publicized hush money trial. Amid the thrum of courtroom drama and the anticipation of the public, one question remains precariously poised at the trial’s pinnacle: Will Trump testify in his own defense?
As the trial unfolds, the defense’s stance remains shrouded in ambiguity. The constitution allows Trump the right to defend himself, and there’s no denying his impulsive desire to confront his accusers and proclaim his innocence. However, Trump’s own defense attorney, Todd Blanche, has indicated that the decision on whether the former president would testify was still undecided as of last Thursday. Four individuals close to the Trump team have disclosed to The Washington Post that the plan does not involve Trump taking the stand.
The gravity of Trump’s decision cannot be overstated. Tony Wyatt, a leading criminal defense barrister at Ewing Law, has unequivocally suggested that Trump’s testimony would be “all downside with almost zero up.” He referred to Trump as a “cross-examiner’s dream,” highlighting the risk of Trump being unable to maintain a consistent narrative under interrogation.
Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer, has been a pivotal witness in the trial, which centers around alleged hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Cohen’s testimony has been instrumental, as he has admitted to stealing from the Trump Organization, a narrative that could potentially be used to the defense’s advantage.
Adding to the complexity, Trump has previously expressed his eagerness to testify, claiming he would “absolutely” do so and asserting that I’m testifying. I tell the truth. I mean, all I can do is tell the truth. And the truth is that there’s no case. They have no case.” Trump also previously said in March, “I would have no problem testifying. I didn’t do anything wrong.”
Trump was caught complaining publicly and falsely that he wasn’t allowed to testify because : “I’m under a gag order — I guess, right? I can’t even testify…I’m not allowed to testify because this judge, who’s totally conflicted, has me under an unconstitutional gag order.”
Relevant articles:
– Trump would be committing ‘act of near-insanity’ if he testifies in own defence at hush money trial, independent.co.uk, 05/20/2024
– Trump trial: Michael Cohen admits he ‘stole from the Trump Organization’ in testimony, NBC Washington, 05/20/2024
– Why Trump likely won’t testify in his hush money trial, MSNBC, 05/20/2024
– Trump is unlikely to testify in his hush-money trial as he could risk committing perjury, reports say, Business Insider, 05/19/2024
– Trump asks New York’s highest court to step in over hush-money trial gag order, Yahoo Singapore News, 05/20/2024
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