Arrr! Trump trial draws to a close, but keep yer spyglass handy for some last minute shenanigans!
2024-05-16
Arrr mateys, 'tis a fact that to condemn Trump, the jury must trust Michael Cohen's tale without any proof that Trump knew how Cohen was to be reimbursed. 'Tis like believin' a fisherman's tale 'bout catchin' a mermaid! Aye, 'tis a laughable situation indeed!
In a column for National Review on Wednesday, I observe that the ongoing testimony of Michael Cohen, Donald Trump’s former lawyer and self-described "fixer," is a two-edged sword for the former president’s defense to the charges brought by Manhattan’s elected Democratic district attorney, Alvin Bragg.Trump lawyer Todd Blanche, needs to discredit Cohen’s credibility due to perjury, frauds, and biased motives, while also acknowledging Cohen's past loyalty to Trump. The defense must convince the jury that Cohen's testimony is unreliable.Although prosecutors claim to have corroborating evidence, they have not supported the key allegations against Trump. Blanche must strike a balance in discrediting Cohen without implicating Trump in illegal activities.Bragg's allegations against Cohen's invoices have weakened, as it is revealed that Cohen did provide legal services to Trump in 2017-18. The defense may call upon Costello, Cohen's former lawyer, to challenge Cohen's credibility further. The trial is approaching its conclusion, with potential twists and turns still to unfold.Overall, the defense strategy must navigate between discrediting Cohen and avoiding implications of Trump's involvement in criminal activities to ensure a favorable outcome for the former president.