Hope Hicks took the stand in Donald J. Trump’s criminal trial in Manhattan, testifying about the impact of the “Access Hollywood” tape on his campaign and the efforts to deny allegations from women like Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal. Hicks, who used the strategy of “deny, deny, deny,” broke down in tears during her testimony. The trial, now in its third week, revealed Mr. Trump’s recorded voice from past campaign events and depositions. In a dramatic turn, prosecutors played excerpts of those recordings and Trump responded by attacking the judge overseeing the case.
The charges against Mr. Trump involve falsifying business records to conceal a payment to Stormy Daniels, an allegation he has denied. The trial has shed light on the pressures of the 2016 election campaign, with Keith Davidson testifying about negotiations with Daniels and McDougal. Trump’s legal team is currently facing fines for violating the gag order during the trial, with the judge considering further sanctions.
The case marks the first time an American president has faced criminal prosecution. If convicted, Trump could face prison time. The trial is set to continue next week as the prosecutors and defense teams make their final arguments. The public continues to follow the trial closely, as each new development provides insight into the inner workings of Trump’s campaign and presidency.
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