It's crunch time for Donald Trump's defense team as they take another stab Thursday at Michael Cohen, the key witness in the criminal trial in which the former president is accused of fraudulently covering up his affair with a porn star to influence his first presidential bid.

It will be a vital day for Trump's lawyers who are vying to prevent jurors from believing Cohen's account that he broke the law at the real estate mogul-turned-president's behest.

From the start, the defense team, which unlike the prosecution does not have the burden of proof in the case, has sought to cast Cohen as a disgruntled ex-employee out for blood -- and Thursday is their big chance to nail it down.

Meanwhile Trump, the first former US president to be tried criminally, has complained that his current effort for another White House term is stymied by the court proceedings.

He's taken to bringing an entourage of Republican lawmakers and higher-ups to trial, aiming to bring the campaign to the courtroom and increasingly brand the case as politicized.

Trump faces 34 felony counts of falsifying business records with the intent to further other crimes in the run-up to 2016's presidential election.

Todd Blanche began questioning Trump's fixer-turned-foe on Tuesday afternoon under the watch of his high-profile client.

After an aggressive start, his line of questioning dulled and meandered as the afternoon wore on, with yawns betraying some jurors' fatigue.

The defense attorney was largely deferential when the witness -- himself a former lawyer who is not unfamiliar with courtroom strategy or proceedings -- sought to evade direct answers.

Cohen has a reputation for a temper that could hurt him on the stand -- his testimony during Trump's civil fraud case last year proved chaotic -- but on Tuesday he was mostly measured in responding to Blanche's questions, which at times veered convoluted.

After a day off the defense will resume Thursday morning, and it's possible they're saving their heat for when the jury has had some rest.

Prosecutors have indicated that Cohen, 57, is their last witness in the case.

His story has generally lined up with those of two other key witnesses: Stormy Daniels, the adult film star who says she received the hush money, and David Pecker, the one-time tabloid boss who said he worked with Trump and Cohen to suppress negative coverage of the White House hopeful during his first campaign.

<h2>Will Trump testify?&nbsp;</h2>

Trump is accused of falsifying business records to reimburse Cohen for a $130,000 payment to Daniels before the 2016 election, when her account of a sexual encounter with the then-Republican nominee could have doomed his campaign.

He denies that the one-night stand with Daniels occurred.

After the prosecution rests, the defense has the opportunity to present a case, though they're not required to and have not specified whether they will.

Most importantly, Trump's lawyers have remained vague on whether their client will testify.

The businessman famously considers himself his own best champion -- but analysts widely believe that he could be a major liability on the stand.

When the jury is given the case for deliberation, the weeks of oft-salacious testimony will likely linger front-of-mind, but they'll also have stacks of documents to pore over.

The interpersonal relationships of the characters in the case make it juicy, but at the end of the day the charges hinge on financial records, and whether falsifying them was done with the intent to sway the 2016 presidential vote.

Prosecutors this week painstakingly detailed the alleged crimes, walking Cohen and the jury through the issue of 11 checks -- most signed by Trump -- in return for invoices Cohen said were falsified to cover up the hush money reimbursement.

Cohen said he had made the payments "to ensure that the story would not come out, would not affect Mr Trump's chances of becoming president of the United States" and did so "on behalf of Mr Trump."

Cohen spent 13 months in jail and another year-and-a-half under house arrest after pleading guilty in 2018 to lying to Congress and committing financial crimes.

Under direct questioning he said Trump had reassured him after FBI agents, seeking evidence in the case, raided his hotel room and office in April 2018.

"Don't worry, everything's going to be fine, I'm the president of the United States," Cohen recalled Trump saying.

"I felt reassured because I had the president of the United States protecting me," Cohen testified.

It's crunch time for Donald Trump's defense team as they take another stab Thursday at Michael Cohen, the key witness in the criminal trial in which the former president is accused of fraudulently covering up his affair with a porn star to influence his first presidential bid.

It's crunch time for Donald Trump's defense team as they take another stab Thursday at Michael Cohen, the key witness in the criminal trial in which the former president is accused of fraudulently covering up his affair with a porn star to influence his first presidential bid. It will be a vital day for Trump's lawyers who are vying to prevent jurors from believing Cohen's account that he broke the law at the real estate mogul-turned-president's behest. From the start, the defense team, which unlike the prosecution does not have the burden of proof in the case, has sought to cast Cohen as a disgruntled ex-employee out for blood -- and Thursday is their big chance to nail it down. Meanwhile Trump, the first former US president to be tried criminally, has complained that his current effort for another White House term is stymied by the court proceedings. He's taken to bringing an entourage of Republican lawmakers and higher-ups to trial, aiming to bring the campaign to the courtroom and increasingly brand the case as politicized. Trump faces 34 felony counts of falsifying business records with the intent to further other crimes in the run-up to 2016's presidential election. Todd Blanche began questioning Trump's fixer-turned-foe on Tuesday afternoon under the watch of his high-profile client. After an aggressive start, his line of questioning dulled and meandered as the afternoon wore on, with yawns betraying some jurors' fatigue. The defense attorney was largely deferential when the witness -- himself a former lawyer who is not unfamiliar with courtroom strategy or proceedings -- sought to evade direct answers. Cohen has a reputation for a temper that could hurt him on the stand -- his testimony during Trump's civil fraud case last year proved chaotic -- but on Tuesday he was mostly measured in responding to Blanche's questions, which at times veered convoluted. After a day off the defense will resume Thursday morning, and it's possible they're saving their heat for when the jury has had some rest. Prosecutors have indicated that Cohen, 57, is their last witness in the case. His story has generally lined up with those of two other key witnesses: Stormy Daniels, the adult film star who says she received the hush money, and David Pecker, the one-time tabloid boss who said he worked with Trump and Cohen to suppress negative coverage of the White House hopeful during his first campaign. Will Trump testify? Trump is accused of falsifying business records to reimburse Cohen for a $130,000 payment to Daniels before the 2016 election, when her account of a sexual encounter with the then-Republican nominee could have doomed his campaign. He denies that the one-night stand with Daniels occurred. After the prosecution rests, the defense has the opportunity to present a case, though they're not required to and have not specified whether they will. Most importantly, Trump's lawyers have remained vague on whether their client will testify. The businessman famously considers himself his own best champion -- but analysts widely believe that he could be a major liability on the stand. When the jury is given the case for deliberation, the weeks of oft-salacious testimony will likely linger front-of-mind, but they'll also have stacks of documents to pore over. The interpersonal relationships of the characters in the case make it juicy, but at the end of the day the charges hinge on financial records, and whether falsifying them was done with the intent to sway the 2016 presidential vote. Prosecutors this week painstakingly detailed the alleged crimes, walking Cohen and the jury through the issue of 11 checks -- most signed by Trump -- in return for invoices Cohen said were falsified to cover up the hush money reimbursement. Cohen said he had made the payments "to ensure that the story would not come out, would not affect Mr Trump's chances of becoming president of the United States" and did so "on behalf of Mr Trump." Cohen spent 13 months in jail and another year-and-a-half under house arrest after pleading guilty in 2018 to lying to Congress and committing financial crimes. Under direct questioning he said Trump had reassured him after FBI agents, seeking evidence in the case, raided his hotel room and office in April 2018. "Don't worry, everything's going to be fine, I'm the president of the United States," Cohen recalled Trump saying. "I felt reassured because I had the president of the United States protecting me," Cohen testified.

Crunch day for Trump lawyers seeking to discredit Cohen at hush money trial

Stormy Daniels on Thursday (May 9) returned to the witness stand at Donald Trump's historic hush money trial where the former US president's attorneys grilled&nbsp;the adult film star over the reason why she sought money to not disclose the story of their sexual encounter.

She&nbsp;concluded her protracted testimony&nbsp;with Trump's lawyers&nbsp;attempting to portray her as an avaricious liar who made money out of the allegations she levelled.

"I wanted the truth to come out... to get my story protected with a paper trail so that my family didn't get hurt," the 45-year-old Daniels said during aggressive cross-examination by Trump's attorney Susan Necheles.

Daniels, who had sex with the married Trump in the year 2006, testified in court on Tuesday for nearly five hours.

The 77-year-old former US president is indicted of fabricating business records to recompense his lawyer, Michael Cohen, for a settlement worth $130,000 to Daniels on the eve of the 2016 presidential election.

Trump's lawyer Susan Necheles on Thursday resumed Daniels' cross-examination with aggressive interrogation concerning inconsistencies in her bank account and the exact reason as to why she accepted the money from a lawyer and stayed quiet about the incident previously when she said that she wanted to go public about the story.

To this, Daniels replied that she ultimately agreed to a non-disclosure agreement in exchange for money because she was concerned about her safety.

"The better alternative was to get my story protected with a paper trail," Daniels testified. Publishing the story would have put "a target on my back, and my family's," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-trial-judge-warns-trumps-lawyers-over-his-audible-cursing-during-stormy-daniels-testimony-719317">Also read: Trump hush money trial: Judge warns Trump’s lawyers over his ‘audible’ cursing during Stormy Daniels testimony</a>

<h2>'Frankenstein case'</h2>

Trump, while on his way to the court called the matter a "Frankenstein case", during his interaction with the media.

"It's not a recognizable crime that any of us have seen," he said. "This is a prosecutor making it up as he goes along."

Daniels, during her testimony on Tuesday and Thursday, walked the New York jury through the one-night stand that she stated she had with the former US president at a celebrity golf tournament.

Trump's lawyers accused Daniels of appearing at strip club events promoted with a picture of Trump and the tagline "Making America Horny Again."

"I have no control over how a club advertises, and I never reposted anything with this photo," said Daniels who wore a green dress and a long, hooded black cardigan.

"I never used that tagline -- I hated it."

On Tuesday, the porn star said that though she wasn't "threatened verbally or physically", she said she "felt ashamed I didn't stop it, didn't say no."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Stormy Daniels on Thursday (May 9) returned to the witness stand at Donald Trump's historic hush money trial where the former US president's attorneys grilled the adult film star over the reason why she sought money to not disclose the story of their sexual encounter.

Stormy Daniels on Thursday (May 9) returned to the witness stand at Donald Trump's historic hush money trial where the former US president's attorneys grilled the adult film star over the reason why she sought money to not disclose the story of their sexual encounter. She concluded her protracted testimony with Trump's lawyers attempting to portray her as an avaricious liar who made money out of the allegations she levelled. "I wanted the truth to come out... to get my story protected with a paper trail so that my family didn't get hurt," the 45-year-old Daniels said during aggressive cross-examination by Trump's attorney Susan Necheles. Daniels, who had sex with the married Trump in the year 2006, testified in court on Tuesday for nearly five hours. The 77-year-old former US president is indicted of fabricating business records to recompense his lawyer, Michael Cohen, for a settlement worth $130,000 to Daniels on the eve of the 2016 presidential election. Trump's lawyer Susan Necheles on Thursday resumed Daniels' cross-examination with aggressive interrogation concerning inconsistencies in her bank account and the exact reason as to why she accepted the money from a lawyer and stayed quiet about the incident previously when she said that she wanted to go public about the story. To this, Daniels replied that she ultimately agreed to a non-disclosure agreement in exchange for money because she was concerned about her safety. "The better alternative was to get my story protected with a paper trail," Daniels testified. Publishing the story would have put "a target on my back, and my family's," she said. Also read: Trump hush money trial: Judge warns Trump’s lawyers over his ‘audible’ cursing during Stormy Daniels testimony 'Frankenstein case' Trump, while on his way to the court called the matter a "Frankenstein case", during his interaction with the media. "It's not a recognizable crime that any of us have seen," he said. "This is a prosecutor making it up as he goes along." Daniels, during her testimony on Tuesday and Thursday, walked the New York jury through the one-night stand that she stated she had with the former US president at a celebrity golf tournament. Trump's lawyers accused Daniels of appearing at strip club events promoted with a picture of Trump and the tagline "Making America Horny Again." "I have no control over how a club advertises, and I never reposted anything with this photo," said Daniels who wore a green dress and a long, hooded black cardigan. "I never used that tagline -- I hated it." On Tuesday, the porn star said that though she wasn't "threatened verbally or physically", she said she "felt ashamed I didn't stop it, didn't say no." (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hush money trial: Stormy Daniels denies cashing in on allegations levelled against former US president

Donald Trump's former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen is expected to take the witness stand Monday in the former US President's hush money criminal trial. Watch in for more details!

Trump Hush Money Trial: Michael Cohen expected to testify Monday

Lawyers for former US President Donald Trump continued their cross-examination of Stormy Daniels in the New York hush money trial. Lawyers are trying to convince jurors that the key prosecution witness cannot be believed.

Trump Hush Money Trial: Donald Trump's lawyers continue cross-examination of Stormy Daniels

On Day 2 of Stormy Daniels' testimony, Donald Trump's lawyers attempted to show inconsistencies in the porn star's detailed account&nbsp;of her alleged 2006 sexual encounter with the ex-president.

Here are the key takeaways from the significant testimony.

<h2>Defence claims Daniels 'made it all up'</h2>

Defence lawyer Susan Necheles repeatedly tried to prove that Daniels made up the encounter with Trump. However, despite a barrage of tough questions, Daniels stuck to her account.

"You're trying to make me say that it changed, but it hasn't changed," she told the lawyer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stormy-daniels-donald-trump-hush-money-trial-719800">Trump hush money trial: Stormy Daniels denies cashing in on allegations levelled against former US president</a>

Daniels' cross-examination lasted nearly four hours on day two of her testimony. During it,&nbsp;Necheles questioned her about details she mentioned in her earlier testimony of the alleged encounter, compared to the versions she wrote in her book or mentioned in interviews.

Zeroing in on details, Necheles asked Daniels why in a 2018 interview with Vogue she had failed to mention that Trump's bodyguard was outside the room.

"You made all this up, right?" Necheles asked the adult film star at one point.

"No" responded Daniels. On Tuesday (May 7) she had testified that the bodyguard's presence had contributed to the power imbalance between her and Trump and had left her uncomfortable.

<h2>Request for mistrial denied AGAIN</h2>

After Daniels'&nbsp;testimony ended, Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche once again urged presiding Justice Juan Merchan to declare a mistrial.

He argued that Daniels' detailed testimony, which included explicit details like Trump skipping wearing a condom, veered into territory not relevant to the hush-money allegations against the ex-president.

"This is not a case about sex," said Blanche, adding, "This is not a case about whether that incident (the sexual tryst) took place or didn't take place."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-rigging-allegations-trump-refuses-to-dismiss-possibility-of-violence-if-he-loses-in-2024-elections-716844">Amid 'rigging' allegations, Trump refuses to dismiss possibility of violence if he loses 2024 elections</a>

However, once again, Judge Merchan denied the request. He reasoned that since Blanche, in his opening statement on April 22, contended that the encounter never happened, Stormy's lawyers are allowed to reestablish her credibility.

"Your denial puts the jury in a position of having to choose who they believe," said the judge.

<h2>Request for relaxation of gag order </h2>

Blanche also requested that the gag order on Trump's public comments about jurors and witnesses be loosened. He argued that Trump should be able to respond to questions about Daniels'&nbsp;testimony publicly.

"As we've said repeatedly, he needs an opportunity to respond to the American people," he said.

However, Judge Merchan, citing Trump's "track record," denied this request as well. He said, "Other witnesses, including not only Michael Cohen, will see your client doing whatever it is he intends to do."

"The reason the gag order is in place to begin with is precisely because of the nature of these attacks. The nature, the vitriol … your client's track record speaks for itself here."

Prosecutor Christopher Conroy suggested that Trump can respond while testifying in his own defence.

"If somebody wants to respond to something that's said in this room, that can happen in this room," he commented.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Day 2 of Stormy Daniels' testimony, Donald Trump's lawyers attempted to show inconsistencies in the porn star's detailed account of her alleged 2006 sexual encounter with the ex-president.

On Day 2 of Stormy Daniels' testimony, Donald Trump's lawyers attempted to show inconsistencies in the porn star's detailed account of her alleged 2006 sexual encounter with the ex-president. Here are the key takeaways from the significant testimony. Defence claims Daniels 'made it all up' Defence lawyer Susan Necheles repeatedly tried to prove that Daniels made up the encounter with Trump. However, despite a barrage of tough questions, Daniels stuck to her account. "You're trying to make me say that it changed, but it hasn't changed," she told the lawyer. Also read | Trump hush money trial: Stormy Daniels denies cashing in on allegations levelled against former US president Daniels' cross-examination lasted nearly four hours on day two of her testimony. During it, Necheles questioned her about details she mentioned in her earlier testimony of the alleged encounter, compared to the versions she wrote in her book or mentioned in interviews. Zeroing in on details, Necheles asked Daniels why in a 2018 interview with Vogue she had failed to mention that Trump's bodyguard was outside the room. "You made all this up, right?" Necheles asked the adult film star at one point. "No" responded Daniels. On Tuesday (May 7) she had testified that the bodyguard's presence had contributed to the power imbalance between her and Trump and had left her uncomfortable. Request for mistrial denied AGAIN After Daniels' testimony ended, Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche once again urged presiding Justice Juan Merchan to declare a mistrial. He argued that Daniels' detailed testimony, which included explicit details like Trump skipping wearing a condom, veered into territory not relevant to the hush-money allegations against the ex-president. "This is not a case about sex," said Blanche, adding, "This is not a case about whether that incident (the sexual tryst) took place or didn't take place." Also read | Amid 'rigging' allegations, Trump refuses to dismiss possibility of violence if he loses 2024 elections However, once again, Judge Merchan denied the request. He reasoned that since Blanche, in his opening statement on April 22, contended that the encounter never happened, Stormy's lawyers are allowed to reestablish her credibility. "Your denial puts the jury in a position of having to choose who they believe," said the judge. Request for relaxation of gag order Blanche also requested that the gag order on Trump's public comments about jurors and witnesses be loosened. He argued that Trump should be able to respond to questions about Daniels' testimony publicly. "As we've said repeatedly, he needs an opportunity to respond to the American people," he said. However, Judge Merchan, citing Trump's "track record," denied this request as well. He said, "Other witnesses, including not only Michael Cohen, will see your client doing whatever it is he intends to do." "The reason the gag order is in place to begin with is precisely because of the nature of these attacks. The nature, the vitriol … your client's track record speaks for itself here." Prosecutor Christopher Conroy suggested that Trump can respond while testifying in his own defence. "If somebody wants to respond to something that's said in this room, that can happen in this room," he commented. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge slams Trump's 'track record': Key takeaways from Day 2 of Stormy Daniels testimony

Donald Trump is currently facing a jury in his contentious hush money trial involving former porn star Stormy Daniels, but his time in court for illegally keeping classified documents after leaving office stands 'indefinitely' delayed.

On Tuesday (May 7) a judge decided that the Trump classified document case which was scheduled to go to trial on May 20 would not begin on the set date.

<h2>Why was the Trump classified documents trial delayed?</h2>

US District Judge Aileen Cannon, a Donald Trump-appointed judge, did not set a new trial date on Tuesday, but scheduled pre-trial hearings to run through July 22, reports Reuters.

As per Reuters, both the prosecution and defence acknowledged that the May 20 date would need to be delayed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-trial-stormy-daniels-likely-to-appear-in-court-today-719014">Trump hush money trial: Judge rejects mistrial request from defence lawyer over Stormy Daniels testimony</a>

This has greatly reduced&nbsp;the chances that Trump will face the jury in either of the two federal cases against him before the upcoming US elections scheduled for Nov 5. Notably, Trump is also&nbsp;facing&nbsp;charges for trying to overturn the 2020 election results.

While Trump's lawyers contend that the trial should not start until after the elections, after Judge Cannon&nbsp;ordered them&nbsp;to propose a timeline for the case, they suggested an August 12 date. However, Special Counsel Jack Smith, who brought the case against the former president, has proposed a July date.

<h2>The federal cases against Trump</h2>

Trump faces 40 federal counts accusing him of retaining sensitive national security documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after leaving the presidential office in 2021 and obstructing US government efforts to retrieve them. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hush-money-trial-stormy-daniels-details-alleged-sexual-encounter-with-trump-in-court-719135">Hush money trial: Stormy Daniels details alleged sexual encounter with Trump in court</a>

In another federal case, also brought by Special Counsel Smith, Trump faces charges over efforts to overturn the 2020 election results after losing to Democratic candidate, current US President Joe Biden.

As the federal cases face indefinite delay, experts have opined that this poses an "absolutely unprecedented" situation where "a defendant is potentially going to have the power to shut down his own prosecution."

Randall Eliason, a George Washington University law professor and an expert in white-collar criminal cases, told Reuters, "That's an argument for getting the case to trial before the election."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump is currently facing a jury in his contentious hush money trial involving former porn star Stormy Daniels, but his time in court for illegally keeping classified documents after leaving office stands 'indefinitely' delayed.

Donald Trump is currently facing a jury in his contentious hush money trial involving former porn star Stormy Daniels, but his time in court for illegally keeping classified documents after leaving office stands 'indefinitely' delayed. On Tuesday (May 7) a judge decided that the Trump classified document case which was scheduled to go to trial on May 20 would not begin on the set date. Why was the Trump classified documents trial delayed? US District Judge Aileen Cannon, a Donald Trump-appointed judge, did not set a new trial date on Tuesday, but scheduled pre-trial hearings to run through July 22, reports Reuters. As per Reuters, both the prosecution and defence acknowledged that the May 20 date would need to be delayed. Also read | Trump hush money trial: Judge rejects mistrial request from defence lawyer over Stormy Daniels testimony This has greatly reduced the chances that Trump will face the jury in either of the two federal cases against him before the upcoming US elections scheduled for Nov 5. Notably, Trump is also facing charges for trying to overturn the 2020 election results. While Trump's lawyers contend that the trial should not start until after the elections, after Judge Cannon ordered them to propose a timeline for the case, they suggested an August 12 date. However, Special Counsel Jack Smith, who brought the case against the former president, has proposed a July date. The federal cases against Trump Trump faces 40 federal counts accusing him of retaining sensitive national security documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after leaving the presidential office in 2021 and obstructing US government efforts to retrieve them. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Also read | Hush money trial: Stormy Daniels details alleged sexual encounter with Trump in court In another federal case, also brought by Special Counsel Smith, Trump faces charges over efforts to overturn the 2020 election results after losing to Democratic candidate, current US President Joe Biden. As the federal cases face indefinite delay, experts have opined that this poses an "absolutely unprecedented" situation where "a defendant is potentially going to have the power to shut down his own prosecution." Randall Eliason, a George Washington University law professor and an expert in white-collar criminal cases, told Reuters, "That's an argument for getting the case to trial before the election." (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump classified documents case delayed indefinitely, experts warn of 'unprecedented' situation

A visibly upset Donald Trump was observed shaking his head and "cursing audibly" as porn star Stormy Daniels took the stand and gave testimony on Tuesday (May 7). Trump's audible dissent failed to escape the notice of the presiding judge, who as per reports has issued a warning, ordering the ex-president's lawyers to temper their client's behaviour.

<h2>Contempt of Court warning</h2>

As per an AFP report, during a sidebar conversation — where lawyers huddle with the judge in conversations that are not meant to be audible to the jury or wider courtroom — Judge Juan Merchan warned Trump's attorney Todd Blanche.

"I understand that your client is upset at this point, but he is cursing audibly, and he is shaking his head visually, and that's contemptuous," said Merchan as per excerpts of the official trial transcript posted online Tuesday evening.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pornstar-republican-and-donald-trumps-sneaky-link-who-is-stormy-daniels-719227">Porn star, Republican and Donald Trump's sneaky link: Who is Stormy Daniels?</a>

Merchan said Trump's noise and gestures have "the potential to intimidate the witness (Daniels) and the jury can see that."

"I won't tolerate that," he added later.

The judge said he had in particular seen Trump shake his head during the part of testimony where Daniels revealed explicit details about swatting the Republican with a magazine during her sexual encounter with him.

"I will talk to him," Blanche responded, as per the report.

Judge Merchan told Blanche that he had raised the issue during the sidebar to avoid embarrassing Trump.

"I don't want to embarrass him," he said.

<h2>Stormy's testimony</h2>

On Tuesday, Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford&nbsp;testified details about her alleged sexual tryst with Trump from 2006.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-classified-documents-case-delayed-indefinitely-experts-warn-of-unprecedented-situation-719143">Donald Trump classified documents case delayed indefinitely, experts warn of 'unprecedented' situation</a>

The duo reportedly crossed paths in the summer of 2006, during a charity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe. She was 27, while Trump was 60 when they allegedly engaged in what she said "may have been the least impressive sex I'd ever had."

She confirmed the $130,000 hush money payment and said she had pushed for payment before 2016 elections because she feared Trump won't pay her afterwards.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to charges of falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 hush money payment to Daniels and also denies having sex with her.

(With inputs from agencies)

A visibly upset Donald Trump was observed shaking his head and "cursing audibly" as porn star Stormy Daniels took the stand and gave testimony on Tuesday (May 7).

A visibly upset Donald Trump was observed shaking his head and "cursing audibly" as porn star Stormy Daniels took the stand and gave testimony on Tuesday (May 7). Trump's audible dissent failed to escape the notice of the presiding judge, who as per reports has issued a warning, ordering the ex-president's lawyers to temper their client's behaviour. Contempt of Court warning As per an AFP report, during a sidebar conversation — where lawyers huddle with the judge in conversations that are not meant to be audible to the jury or wider courtroom — Judge Juan Merchan warned Trump's attorney Todd Blanche. "I understand that your client is upset at this point, but he is cursing audibly, and he is shaking his head visually, and that's contemptuous," said Merchan as per excerpts of the official trial transcript posted online Tuesday evening. Also read | Porn star, Republican and Donald Trump's sneaky link: Who is Stormy Daniels? Merchan said Trump's noise and gestures have "the potential to intimidate the witness (Daniels) and the jury can see that." "I won't tolerate that," he added later. The judge said he had in particular seen Trump shake his head during the part of testimony where Daniels revealed explicit details about swatting the Republican with a magazine during her sexual encounter with him. "I will talk to him," Blanche responded, as per the report. Judge Merchan told Blanche that he had raised the issue during the sidebar to avoid embarrassing Trump. "I don't want to embarrass him," he said. Stormy's testimony On Tuesday, Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford testified details about her alleged sexual tryst with Trump from 2006. Also read | Donald Trump classified documents case delayed indefinitely, experts warn of 'unprecedented' situation The duo reportedly crossed paths in the summer of 2006, during a charity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe. She was 27, while Trump was 60 when they allegedly engaged in what she said "may have been the least impressive sex I'd ever had." She confirmed the $130,000 hush money payment and said she had pushed for payment before 2016 elections because she feared Trump won't pay her afterwards. Trump has pleaded not guilty to charges of falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 hush money payment to Daniels and also denies having sex with her. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump hush money trial: Judge warns Trump’s lawyers over his ‘audible’ cursing during Stormy Daniels testimony

Stormy Daniels testified at Donald Trump’s criminal trial on Tuesday, setting up a long-awaited showdown between the former US president and the porn star. Watch in for more details!

Trump Hush Money Trial: Stormy Daniels claims 'she was physically threatened to stay quiet'

Trump Hush Money Trial: Key witness Stormy Daniels takes the stand

The judge in Donald Trump's criminal trial fined him $1,000 and held him in contempt of court for a 10th time on Monday for violating a gag order and warned that further violations could land the former president in jail. Watch in for more details!

Trump Hush Money Trial: Judge warns Trump of potential jail time for violating gag order

Porn star Stormy Daniels is expected to appear as a witness Tuesday in former US President Donald Trump’s hush money trial. Trump is facing a hush money trial with potential jail time for violating gag orders. Watch in for more details!

Trump Hush Money Trial: Stormy Daniels 'likely' to appear in court

The judge presiding over Donald Trump's hush money trial has fined him $1,000 for violating his gag order and sternly warned the former president that additional violation could result in jail time. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump Gag Order: Judge warns of jail time for further violations

Donald Trump, after a day slamming his democrat rival Joe Biden in campaign rallies, returned to court on Thursday (May 2) for his hush-money trial.

Day 10 of the trial saw Trump and his team allege that the hush money was nothing short of "extortion".

Here are the key takeaways from Day 10 of Donald Trump's hush money trial.

<h2>Extortion, he said: Dragging Keith Davidson through the mud</h2>

Trump's lawyers, as per CNN, alleged that porn Star Stormy Daniels' former lawyer Davidson has a long history of extracting money from celebrities while going "up to the line without committing extortion."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-biden-says-every-single-thing-he-touches-turns-to-sh-pledges-world-peace-717177">Trump blasts Biden, says 'every single thing he touches turns to sh**,' pledges world peace</a>

In an apparent attempt to undermine his credibility as a witness, Trump's attorney Emil Bove alleged Davidson had made alleged efforts to seek cash from Hulk Hogan in exchange for a sex tape involving the former pro wrestler. Names like Lindsay Lohan, Charlie Sheen and Tila Tequila were also mentioned.

"You were pretty well-versed in getting right up to the line without committing extortion, right?" Bove asked. However, the allegations were denied by Davidson.

<h2>More fines? Another gag order trial</h2>

Prosecutors are alleging that Trump, even after the $9000 fine he faced for violating a gag order, has once&nbsp;again flouted the order.

The gag order, as per Reuters, prohibits him from making public comments about jurors, witnesses, and families of the judge and prosecutors if those statements are meant to interfere with the case.

Prosecutors slammed Trump for violating the order four more&nbsp;times and are seeking another $4000 fine. They cited four instances, including one where Trump during an interview alleged that the jury was on purpose picked from a heavily Democratic area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-rigging-allegations-trump-refuses-to-dismiss-possibility-of-violence-if-he-loses-in-2024-elections-716844">Amid 'rigging' allegations, Trump refuses to dismiss possibility of violence if he loses 2024 elections</a>

However, Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche told the judge "I’m making an argument that he didn’t," violate the gag order.

To which, presiding Judge Juan Merchan responded, "Well, I'm not agreeing with that argument".

<h2>Secret phone calls</h2>

The jury was made privy to a series of calls between Michael Cohen and Davidson. The calls were secretly recorded in 2018.

In one, Cohen, Trump's former fixer, could be heard telling Davidson about the Daniels deal, "I can't even tell you how many times he said to me, 'You know, I hate the fact that we did it.' And my comment to him was 'but every person that you've spoken to told you it was the right move'."

In another recording, Davidson can be heard telling Cohen that porn star Stormy Daniels wanted the $13,000 payment "more than you could ever imagine," because she feared Trump would lose the 2016 elections and her story would be "worth zero."

<h2>Hush money or non-disclosure agreement&nbsp;</h2>

Davidson also confirmed that Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, signed a non-disclosure agreement with Trump to keep quiet about a 2006 sexual encounter.

However, he said he would not describe the payment as hush money and stated that "It was consideration in a civil settlement agreement."

<h2>'What have we done?': Recounting election day, 2016</h2>

Jurors also saw screenshots of texts between Davidson and Dylan Howard, the editor of the National Enquirer. In one instance, a text from Davidson said, "What have we done?" while Howard replied with "Oh my God."

"This was sort of gallows humour. There was an understanding that our activities in some way may have assisted the presidential campaign of Donald Trump," Davidson testified.

Additionally, he made a point to mention that Trump's former fixer Cohen, who was experiencing feelings of "despondency" and "depression" after the election, would frequently reach out to him through phone calls.

He claimed that Cohen told him that Trump never paid him and that he was never going to get reimbursed for his $130,000 hush money payment to Daniels.

"He said something to the effect of, 'Jesus Christ, can you f**king believe I'm not going to Washington, after everything I've done for that f**king guy? I can't believe I'm not going to Washington. I've saved that guy's ass so many times, you don't even know'."

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump, after a day slamming his democrat rival Joe Biden in campaign rallies, returned to court on Thursday (May 2) for his hush-money trial. Day 10 of the trial saw Trump and his team allege that the hush money was nothing short of "extortion".

Donald Trump, after a day slamming his democrat rival Joe Biden in campaign rallies, returned to court on Thursday (May 2) for his hush-money trial. Day 10 of the trial saw Trump and his team allege that the hush money was nothing short of "extortion". Here are the key takeaways from Day 10 of Donald Trump's hush money trial. Extortion, he said: Dragging Keith Davidson through the mud Trump's lawyers, as per CNN, alleged that porn Star Stormy Daniels' former lawyer Davidson has a long history of extracting money from celebrities while going "up to the line without committing extortion." Also read | Trump blasts Biden, says 'every single thing he touches turns to sh**,' pledges world peace In an apparent attempt to undermine his credibility as a witness, Trump's attorney Emil Bove alleged Davidson had made alleged efforts to seek cash from Hulk Hogan in exchange for a sex tape involving the former pro wrestler. Names like Lindsay Lohan, Charlie Sheen and Tila Tequila were also mentioned. "You were pretty well-versed in getting right up to the line without committing extortion, right?" Bove asked. However, the allegations were denied by Davidson. More fines? Another gag order trial Prosecutors are alleging that Trump, even after the $9000 fine he faced for violating a gag order, has once again flouted the order. The gag order, as per Reuters, prohibits him from making public comments about jurors, witnesses, and families of the judge and prosecutors if those statements are meant to interfere with the case. Prosecutors slammed Trump for violating the order four more times and are seeking another $4000 fine. They cited four instances, including one where Trump during an interview alleged that the jury was on purpose picked from a heavily Democratic area. Also read | Amid 'rigging' allegations, Trump refuses to dismiss possibility of violence if he loses 2024 elections However, Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche told the judge "I’m making an argument that he didn’t," violate the gag order. To which, presiding Judge Juan Merchan responded, "Well, I'm not agreeing with that argument". Secret phone calls The jury was made privy to a series of calls between Michael Cohen and Davidson. The calls were secretly recorded in 2018. In one, Cohen, Trump's former fixer, could be heard telling Davidson about the Daniels deal, "I can't even tell you how many times he said to me, 'You know, I hate the fact that we did it.' And my comment to him was 'but every person that you've spoken to told you it was the right move'." In another recording, Davidson can be heard telling Cohen that porn star Stormy Daniels wanted the $13,000 payment "more than you could ever imagine," because she feared Trump would lose the 2016 elections and her story would be "worth zero." Hush money or non-disclosure agreement Davidson also confirmed that Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, signed a non-disclosure agreement with Trump to keep quiet about a 2006 sexual encounter. However, he said he would not describe the payment as hush money and stated that "It was consideration in a civil settlement agreement." 'What have we done?': Recounting election day, 2016 Jurors also saw screenshots of texts between Davidson and Dylan Howard, the editor of the National Enquirer. In one instance, a text from Davidson said, "What have we done?" while Howard replied with "Oh my God." "This was sort of gallows humour. There was an understanding that our activities in some way may have assisted the presidential campaign of Donald Trump," Davidson testified. Additionally, he made a point to mention that Trump's former fixer Cohen, who was experiencing feelings of "despondency" and "depression" after the election, would frequently reach out to him through phone calls. He claimed that Cohen told him that Trump never paid him and that he was never going to get reimbursed for his $130,000 hush money payment to Daniels. "He said something to the effect of, 'Jesus Christ, can you f**king believe I'm not going to Washington, after everything I've done for that f**king guy? I can't believe I'm not going to Washington. I've saved that guy's ass so many times, you don't even know'." (With inputs from agencies)

'Extortion' allegations and more: Here's what happened on Day 10 of Trump hush money trial

Former US President Donald Trump was fined $9,000 for violating gag order that prohibited him from making statements connected to the trial. Watch to know more.

Trump Hush money case: Second week of Donald Trump's historic criminal trial

Former US President Donald Trump was fined $9,000 for violating gag order that prohibited him from making statements connected to the trial. Watch in for more details!

Hush Money Trial: Judge fines Donald Trump for violating gag order

In one of the most high-profile cases in history of the United States the ongoing criminal trial against former president Donald Trump wrapped up for the week. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump Hush Money Trial: Trump's criminal trial adjourns until Tuesday

Judge heard arguments on whether Donald Trump violated a gag order with social media posts about two expected witnesses in the hush money trial. Watch in for more details!

Trump Hush Money Trial: David Pecker kept doorman under contract until after election

The first day of Donald Trump's historic hush-money trial concluded Monday with opening statements from both sides and testimony from its first witness. Watch in for more details!

US: Prosecutors, defense deliver opening statements in Donald Trump's hush-money trial

Donald Trump Hush Money Case Trial: Judge warns Trump lawyer during gag order hearing

Former US president Donald Trump’s trial over alleged hush money payments resumed Tuesday (Apr 23) where prosecutors accused him of violating a gag order in several of his posts made on Truth Social media platform. Prosecutors urged&nbsp;judge&nbsp;Juan Merchan to fine Trump $10,000 for violating the order which prohibits him from criticising witnesses and others involved in the case. "Defendant has violated this order repeatedly and hasn't stopped," New York prosecutor Christopher Conroy said in the New York courtroom.

Conroy also added that Trump’s attacks on social media forced a juror last week to withdraw over privacy concerns.

"He knows what he's not allowed to do and he does it anyway," Conroy said, adding, "His disobedience of the order is willful. It's intentional."

The hush money trial is over the alleged $130,000 payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels by Trump ahead of the 2016 presidential elections.

<h2>Defence statement</h2>

Trump’s defence attorney, however, claimed there has been "no willful violation" of the gag order. Todd Blanche, Trump's defence attorney, said, "President Trump does in fact know what the gag order allows him to do and not allow him to do."

<h2>Courtroom drama</h2>

During the trial, Judge Juan Merchan got heated up and asked to clarify why exactly Trump made those controversial posts.

In response, Blanche said Cohen, Trump’s former personal attorney, and Daniels had repeatedly criticised Trump politically in the lead-up to the trial.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juror-excused-from-trump-hush-money-trial-due-to-fear-of-influence-what-you-need-to-know-712675">Former President Trump speaks to the media outside of court during his trial at Manhattan Criminal Court</a>

"Give me one, give me the most recent one that he is responding to," asked Merchan.

"I don't have a particular tweet that is dispositive," Blanche said, asking why the example had to be "recent."

Watch:&nbsp;Trump's hush money trial: Donald Trump accused of 'pure' election fraud

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-hush-money-trial-donald-trump-accused-of-pure-election-fraud-714028/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Merchan lost calm here and yelled, “I'm asking the questions, OK? I'm going to decide whether your client is in contempt or not, so please don't turn it around."

Todd Blanche added seven of the 10 alleged violations should not be taken into account as they’re just re-posts.

“It’s not making a mockery of the gag order, your honour – it’s a close call,” Blanche said, adding, "It’s just common sense."

Merchan also got frustrated with the slow pace of the hearing.

"I’m not getting an answer, it’s now almost 10:30, the jurors are going to be here at 11 o’clock. I don’t want to keep them waiting," he said.

"Mr Blanche you’re losing all credibility, I have to tell you right now … You’re losing all credibility with the court. Is there any other argument you want to make?"

Meanwhile, during a brief court break, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to go after the judge.

He wrote: "HIGHLY CONFLICTED, TO PUT IT MILDLY, JUDGE JUAN MERCHAN, HAS TAKEN AWAY MY CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO FREE SPEECH. EVERYBODY IS ALLOWED TO TALK AND LIE ABOUT ME, BUT I AM NOT ALLOWED TO DEFEND MYSELF. THIS IS A KANGAROO COURT, AND THE JUDGE SHOULD RECUSE HIMSELF!"

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump’s trial over alleged hush money payments resumed Tuesday (Apr 23) where prosecutors accused him of violating a gag order in several of his posts made on Truth Social media platform.

Former US president Donald Trump’s trial over alleged hush money payments resumed Tuesday (Apr 23) where prosecutors accused him of violating a gag order in several of his posts made on Truth Social media platform. Prosecutors urged judge Juan Merchan to fine Trump $10,000 for violating the order which prohibits him from criticising witnesses and others involved in the case. "Defendant has violated this order repeatedly and hasn't stopped," New York prosecutor Christopher Conroy said in the New York courtroom. Conroy also added that Trump’s attacks on social media forced a juror last week to withdraw over privacy concerns. "He knows what he's not allowed to do and he does it anyway," Conroy said, adding, "His disobedience of the order is willful. It's intentional." The hush money trial is over the alleged $130,000 payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels by Trump ahead of the 2016 presidential elections. Defence statement Trump’s defence attorney, however, claimed there has been "no willful violation" of the gag order. Todd Blanche, Trump's defence attorney, said, "President Trump does in fact know what the gag order allows him to do and not allow him to do." Courtroom drama During the trial, Judge Juan Merchan got heated up and asked to clarify why exactly Trump made those controversial posts. In response, Blanche said Cohen, Trump’s former personal attorney, and Daniels had repeatedly criticised Trump politically in the lead-up to the trial. Also read: Former President Trump speaks to the media outside of court during his trial at Manhattan Criminal Court "Give me one, give me the most recent one that he is responding to," asked Merchan. "I don't have a particular tweet that is dispositive," Blanche said, asking why the example had to be "recent." Watch: Trump's hush money trial: Donald Trump accused of 'pure' election fraud × Merchan lost calm here and yelled, “I'm asking the questions, OK? I'm going to decide whether your client is in contempt or not, so please don't turn it around." Todd Blanche added seven of the 10 alleged violations should not be taken into account as they’re just re-posts. “It’s not making a mockery of the gag order, your honour – it’s a close call,” Blanche said, adding, "It’s just common sense." Merchan also got frustrated with the slow pace of the hearing. "I’m not getting an answer, it’s now almost 10:30, the jurors are going to be here at 11 o’clock. I don’t want to keep them waiting," he said. "Mr Blanche you’re losing all credibility, I have to tell you right now … You’re losing all credibility with the court. Is there any other argument you want to make?" Meanwhile, during a brief court break, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to go after the judge. He wrote: "HIGHLY CONFLICTED, TO PUT IT MILDLY, JUDGE JUAN MERCHAN, HAS TAKEN AWAY MY CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO FREE SPEECH. EVERYBODY IS ALLOWED TO TALK AND LIE ABOUT ME, BUT I AM NOT ALLOWED TO DEFEND MYSELF. THIS IS A KANGAROO COURT, AND THE JUDGE SHOULD RECUSE HIMSELF!" (With inputs from agencies)

Hush money trial: Courtroom drama unfolds as judge loses calm on Trump’s attorney

Donald Trump Hush Money trial: Trump's legal woes overlap poll campaign

Donald Trump Hush Money trial: Trump accused of violating judge's gag order

Opening statements are set to begin Monday in former President Donald Trump's criminal trial in New York. Prosecutors will begin laying out their case for jurors, alleging Trump falsified business records to cover up a "hush money" payment during his 2016 campaign. Watch in for more details!

US: Opening statements set to begin in Donald Trump's hush money case trial

A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election.

Donald Trump’s historic trial began this week with a prompt but emotional jury selection.

Several prospective jurors became emotional as they considered whether they could handle the trial of a former president, particularly one renowned for his criticism of the US justice system and currently the presumed Republican nominee in the upcoming presidential election.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-trial-full-jury-six-alternates-selected-person-reportedly-on-fire-outside-ny-courthouse-713188">Trump hush money trial: Man sets himself on fire outside NY court</a>

New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan expressed gratitude to participants for their bravery as several shared painful details of their pasts in front of reporters during the jury screening process.

He also admired others for their integrity in saying that Trump’s rhetoric would make it hard for them to judge Trump fairly.

Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass informed potential jurors that the prosecution intended to reveal not only bank fraud but also a conspiracy to engage in election fraud and mislead the American voters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-in-three-us-adults-think-trump-did-something-illegal-as-historic-hush-money-trial-gets-underway-712042">Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway</a>

Trump evaded campaign finance regulations by channeling a $130,000 payment to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels through Michael Cohen, his attorney and confidant, subsequently falsely claiming that the funds allocated for reimbursing Cohen were for legal services.

Cohen has admitted&nbsp;he&nbsp;lied to Congress as well as federal tax and election officials.

On Friday (April 19), before leaving court the jurors were asked not to read, listen to or watch anything about the case, or discuss it with anyone.&nbsp;

Trump is the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-hush-money-trial-court-selects-12-jurors-an-alternate-announces-we-have-our-jury-712751">Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors &amp; an alternate, announces 'we have our jury'</a>

However, the former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election.

A jury is scheduled to listen to opening statements on Monday (April 22), regarding whether Donald Trump falsified bank records as part of his attempt to conceal an alleged affair from voters during the 2016 election. Donald Trump’s historic trial began this week with a prompt but emotional jury selection. Several prospective jurors became emotional as they considered whether they could handle the trial of a former president, particularly one renowned for his criticism of the US justice system and currently the presumed Republican nominee in the upcoming presidential election. Also read: Trump hush money trial: Man sets himself on fire outside NY court New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan expressed gratitude to participants for their bravery as several shared painful details of their pasts in front of reporters during the jury screening process. He also admired others for their integrity in saying that Trump’s rhetoric would make it hard for them to judge Trump fairly. Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass informed potential jurors that the prosecution intended to reveal not only bank fraud but also a conspiracy to engage in election fraud and mislead the American voters. Also Read | Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway Trump evaded campaign finance regulations by channeling a $130,000 payment to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels through Michael Cohen, his attorney and confidant, subsequently falsely claiming that the funds allocated for reimbursing Cohen were for legal services. Cohen has admitted he lied to Congress as well as federal tax and election officials. On Friday (April 19), before leaving court the jurors were asked not to read, listen to or watch anything about the case, or discuss it with anyone. Trump is the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges. Also Read | Trump's hush money trial: Court selects 12 jurors & an alternate, announces 'we have our jury' However, the former president has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's hush money trial opening statements set for Monday

The final jurors were seated Friday in Donald Trump’s hush money trial, and an appellate judge rejected the former president’s latest bid to halt the case as a hectic day in court set the stage for opening statements to begin Monday.

Final Jury seated for Donald Trump's hush money case trial

The judge presiding over Donald Trump's hush money trial said on Thursday (April 17) that a juror had been excused from Donald Trump's criminal trial because she claimed to be terrified by the disclosure of some details of her identification.

The judge presiding over Donald Trump's hush money trial said on Thursday (April 17) that a juror had been excused from Donald Trump's criminal trial because she claimed to be terrified by the disclosure of some details of her identification. Why did the judge excuse the juror? Speaking before the jury, the juror noted that after determining from press reports that she was a member of the jury, her friends, relatives, and coworkers had been in touch with her. "I don't believe at this point that I can be fair and unbiased, and let the outside influences not affect my decision-making in the courtroom," said the juror. Also read: Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway On Tuesday, April 16, the second day of the jury selection process, the juror was selected along with six other people. The jurors, whose names are withheld from everybody but the attorneys involved in the case, will have to provide a verdict in the nation's first-ever criminal trial of a former president. What is the Trump hush money trial about? Evidence about claims that Trump and his former lawyer Michael Cohen engaged in a scheme to fabricate documents to conceal payments that Trump made to Cohen will be shown before the jury. The reimbursements were purportedly for a "hush money" payment that Cohen made to adult film star Stormy Daniels, who claimed to have had an affair with Trump years prior, shortly before the 2016 election. In response to the accusations, Trump has pleaded not guilty and denied having an affair with Daniels. Prosecutors, according to him, are pursuing the case for political purposes. Numerous inhabitants of Manhattan are in the pool from which the jurors are selected. After stating that they can serve impartially, candidates are asked to provide information about their personal life, political beliefs, and news consumption patterns. Twelve jurors in all, plus six alternates, will make up the final jury.

Juror excused from Trump hush money trial due to fear of influence: What you need to know

One in three Americans aren't convinced that former United States president Donald Trump committed a crime, according to a recent poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The second day of the historic trial in New York began&nbsp;on Tuesday (Apr 16) with the Republican frontrunner in a Manhattan courtroom for the jury selection.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the poll find?</h2>

On Monday (Apr 15), Trump, 77, set yet another record by becoming the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges which stem from the case where he has been accused of paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels and falsifying business records to cover the payments.

WATCH |&nbsp;Trump's hush-money trial resumes in New York

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-hush-money-trial-resumes-in-new-york-711988/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The AP-NORC poll found that one-third of American adults surveyed believe that Trump did something illegal in the case. The former president has three other criminal cases pending against him.&nbsp;

Notably, only half of Americans would consider the presumptive Republican presidential nominee unfit for the presidency if he were to get convicted in the case, according to the poll.&nbsp;

While a jury would decide if Trump is guilty or not, the report by AP-NORC suggests that a conviction could hurt the former president’s campaign as it seems all but certain that the upcoming presidential election will be a rematch between him and his successor Joe Biden.&nbsp;

However, Trump has repeatedly called the cases against him politically motivated and that Biden engineered them. The rhetoric has helped him garner GOP support, but has not swayed the independents, reported AP.

The poll of 1,204 adults was conducted between April 4 and 8 and also showed that only three in 10 believe that the prosecutors are treating Trump fairly.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hush-money-case-no-jury-selected-on-day-1-as-potential-jurors-confess-to-bias-against-republican-711711">Trump hush money case: No jury selected on day 1 as potential jurors confess to bias against the Republican</a>

The report also said that only two in 10 Americans are extremely or very confident that the judges and jurors in the cases against him can be fair and impartial.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, which includes charges of accounting fraud and falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 payment to Daniels ahead of the 2016 presidential election.&nbsp;

The former president has also denied having sex with Daniels. However, at least 35 per cent of Americans believe that Trump has done something illegal with regard to the hush money allegations, as per the AP-NORC poll.&nbsp;

Republicans are reportedly much less likely than Democrats and independents to say that the former president committed a crime in the hush money case, with nearly six in 10 saying that they would consider Trump fit to be president even if he were to be convicted of falsifying business documents.&nbsp;

<h2>Second day of the trial</h2>

The second day of the trial took place on Tuesday with Trump’s defence lawyer pressing prospective jurors for their opinion on the former US president as they look to select jury members for the trial.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-hush-money-trial-violation-of-gag-order-can-lead-to-fines-jail-time-say-new-york-prosecutors-711653">Trump’s hush money trial: Violation of gag order can lead to fines, jail time, say New York prosecutors</a>

Manhattan Assistant DA Joshua Steinglass told the 18 prospective jurors – who are what remained of the initial pool of 96 – that the case had nothing to do with their personal politics.

“This case is really not about whether you like Donald Trump,” said the Manhattan Assistant DA, adding it is about “the rule of law and whether Donald Trump broke it.”

This comes after Judge Juan Merchan had to dismiss some potential jurors after they confessed that they could not impartially decide if Trump was guilty or not. At the end of the first day, no jurors were selected.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

One in three Americans aren't convinced that former United States president Donald Trump committed a crime, according to a recent poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

One in three Americans aren't convinced that former United States president Donald Trump committed a crime, according to a recent poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The second day of the historic trial in New York began on Tuesday (Apr 16) with the Republican frontrunner in a Manhattan courtroom for the jury selection. What did the poll find? On Monday (Apr 15), Trump, 77, set yet another record by becoming the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges which stem from the case where he has been accused of paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels and falsifying business records to cover the payments. WATCH | Trump's hush-money trial resumes in New York The AP-NORC poll found that one-third of American adults surveyed believe that Trump did something illegal in the case. The former president has three other criminal cases pending against him. Notably, only half of Americans would consider the presumptive Republican presidential nominee unfit for the presidency if he were to get convicted in the case, according to the poll. While a jury would decide if Trump is guilty or not, the report by AP-NORC suggests that a conviction could hurt the former president’s campaign as it seems all but certain that the upcoming presidential election will be a rematch between him and his successor Joe Biden. However, Trump has repeatedly called the cases against him politically motivated and that Biden engineered them. The rhetoric has helped him garner GOP support, but has not swayed the independents, reported AP. The poll of 1,204 adults was conducted between April 4 and 8 and also showed that only three in 10 believe that the prosecutors are treating Trump fairly. Also Read | Trump hush money case: No jury selected on day 1 as potential jurors confess to bias against the Republican The report also said that only two in 10 Americans are extremely or very confident that the judges and jurors in the cases against him can be fair and impartial. Trump has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, which includes charges of accounting fraud and falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 payment to Daniels ahead of the 2016 presidential election. The former president has also denied having sex with Daniels. However, at least 35 per cent of Americans believe that Trump has done something illegal with regard to the hush money allegations, as per the AP-NORC poll. Republicans are reportedly much less likely than Democrats and independents to say that the former president committed a crime in the hush money case, with nearly six in 10 saying that they would consider Trump fit to be president even if he were to be convicted of falsifying business documents. Second day of the trial The second day of the trial took place on Tuesday with Trump’s defence lawyer pressing prospective jurors for their opinion on the former US president as they look to select jury members for the trial. Also Read | Trump’s hush money trial: Violation of gag order can lead to fines, jail time, say New York prosecutors Manhattan Assistant DA Joshua Steinglass told the 18 prospective jurors – who are what remained of the initial pool of 96 – that the case had nothing to do with their personal politics. “This case is really not about whether you like Donald Trump,” said the Manhattan Assistant DA, adding it is about “the rule of law and whether Donald Trump broke it.” This comes after Judge Juan Merchan had to dismiss some potential jurors after they confessed that they could not impartially decide if Trump was guilty or not. At the end of the first day, no jurors were selected. (With inputs from agencies)

Only one-third of Americans think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway

On the second day of former&nbsp;United States president Donald Trump's hush money trial, seven Manhattan residents were selected as jurors.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (April 16), as the jurors were selected, the lawyers on the two sides debated over potential jurors who should be seated and the defendant was warned by the judge to remain quiet.

<h2>How the seven jurors were selected?</h2>

When the selection process took place, the jury's anonymous members were only identified by letters and numbers like B400 and B280 and their identities remained hidden.

These seven jurors were four men and three women, who were young as well as middle-aged. These jurors included a salesman, a nurse, two lawyers, an IT consultant, a teacher and a software engineer. They had grown up in Ireland, Oregon and Puerto Rico.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-in-three-us-adults-think-trump-did-something-illegal-as-historic-hush-money-trial-gets-underway-712042">One in three US adults think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway</a>

These jurors spoke about their backgrounds and also shared their opinions regarding Trump before they were chosen for the job.

In her reply on opinion regarding Trump, a nurse said she "[doesn't] really have" an opinion regarding the former president.&nbsp;

The nurse promised that she was "here for my civic duty" and "to listen to the facts." Meanwhile, an IT consultant said, "My family is my hobby," and admitted to finding Trump "fascinating and mysterious."

Meanwhile, the teacher said, "President Trump speaks his mind, and I'd rather that than someone who's in office who you don't know what they're thinking." She did not know that Trump has been facing criminal charges in other cases as well.&nbsp;

Judge Juan Merchan asked the jurors to come back for opening statements on April 22. The court still needs to select at least five more jurors and nearly half a dozen alternates.

<h2>Judge warns Trump against intimidation of jurors&nbsp;</h2>

The judge warned the&nbsp;lawyers that he would not tolerate intimidation of prospective jurors as he slammed Trump for audibly muttering when one of the possible jurors was being questioned.

Watch:&nbsp;US: Donald Trump calls his Hush Money Trial 'an assault on America'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-donald-trump-calls-his-hush-money-trial-an-assault-on-america-711690/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The judge asked Trump's lawyer to speak to him regarding his behaviour. "I won't tolerate that. I will not have any jurors intimidated in the courtroom," the judge said.

Meanwhile, Trump called the judge&nbsp;"conflicted", and said that "he should not be there."

Trump has been facing 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to hide a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election. Daniels has claimed that she had a sexual encounter with Trump long before the 2016 election.

(With inputs from agencies)

On the second day of former United States president Donald Trump's hush money trial, seven Manhattan residents were selected as jurors. On Tuesday (April 16), as the jurors were selected, the lawyers on the two sides debated over potential jurors who should be seated and the defendant was warned by the judge to remain quiet.

On the second day of former United States president Donald Trump's hush money trial, seven Manhattan residents were selected as jurors. On Tuesday (April 16), as the jurors were selected, the lawyers on the two sides debated over potential jurors who should be seated and the defendant was warned by the judge to remain quiet. How the seven jurors were selected? When the selection process took place, the jury's anonymous members were only identified by letters and numbers like B400 and B280 and their identities remained hidden. These seven jurors were four men and three women, who were young as well as middle-aged. These jurors included a salesman, a nurse, two lawyers, an IT consultant, a teacher and a software engineer. They had grown up in Ireland, Oregon and Puerto Rico. Also Read: One in three US adults think Trump did something illegal as hush money trial gets underway These jurors spoke about their backgrounds and also shared their opinions regarding Trump before they were chosen for the job. In her reply on opinion regarding Trump, a nurse said she "[doesn't] really have" an opinion regarding the former president. The nurse promised that she was "here for my civic duty" and "to listen to the facts." Meanwhile, an IT consultant said, "My family is my hobby," and admitted to finding Trump "fascinating and mysterious." Meanwhile, the teacher said, "President Trump speaks his mind, and I'd rather that than someone who's in office who you don't know what they're thinking." She did not know that Trump has been facing criminal charges in other cases as well. Judge Juan Merchan asked the jurors to come back for opening statements on April 22. The court still needs to select at least five more jurors and nearly half a dozen alternates. Judge warns Trump against intimidation of jurors The judge warned the lawyers that he would not tolerate intimidation of prospective jurors as he slammed Trump for audibly muttering when one of the possible jurors was being questioned. Watch: US: Donald Trump calls his Hush Money Trial 'an assault on America' The judge asked Trump's lawyer to speak to him regarding his behaviour. "I won't tolerate that. I will not have any jurors intimidated in the courtroom," the judge said. Meanwhile, Trump called the judge "conflicted", and said that "he should not be there." Trump has been facing 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to hide a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election. Daniels has claimed that she had a sexual encounter with Trump long before the 2016 election. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's hush money trial case: First 7 jurors selected, judge warns against 'intimidation' of jurors

The New York judge overseeing former United States President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump’s hush money criminal case,&nbsp;on Friday (Apr 12) rejected his latest bid to delay Monday’s&nbsp;trial. The order was passed on the ground that the substantial pre-trial publicity would make the proceedings unfair.&nbsp;

<h2>‘His own doing’</h2>

Trump lost yet another bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels. This comes after the former president faced a string of defeats in various courts to delay the beginning of the trial which will start on Monday with the jury selection.

Trump, 77, is set to become the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges. The most recent delay denial came after he sought an indefinite postponement saying media coverage was prejudiced against him, which would make finding an acceptable jury in Manhattan difficult.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-loses-bid-to-delay-hush-money-trial-in-major-courtroom-setback-709192">Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback</a>

He also claimed that the borough was “overwhelmingly biased” against him. However, in his decision on Friday, Judge Juan Merchan said an indefinite delay in the trial was “not tenable.”&nbsp;

Trump “appears to take the position that his situation and this case are unique and that the pre-trial publicity will never subside. However, this view does not align with reality,” Judge Merchan wrote.&nbsp;

He also noted how the former president himself is responsible for generating this publicity around his legal woes because of his statements.&nbsp;

Merchan said that Trump was “personally responsible for generating much, if not most, of the surrounding publicity with his public statements” outside courtrooms and on social media.

“The situation Defendant finds himself in now is not new to him and at least in part, of his own doing,” the judge added.

He also said that questioning prospective jurors would address any concerns about their ability to be impartial.&nbsp;

Trump lawyer Todd Blanche, in a court filing last month,&nbsp;argued that “potential jurors in Manhattan have been exposed to huge amounts of biased and unfair media coverage relating to this case.”

Meanwhile, the prosecutors argued that the publicity was not likely to drop, and it would be “perverse” to reward the former president with a delay based on the media attention he is responsible for.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Very unfair’</h2>

Meanwhile, Trump on Friday, told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, that he planned on testifying during the trial and called the case a “scam,” and went on to call the trial “very unfair”. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stormy-daniels-hush-money-trial-judge-delays-trumps-historic-criminal-trial-after-last-minute-evidence-704190">Stormy Daniels hush money case: Trump’s historic criminal trial set for April 15</a>

“All I can do is tell the truth…(and) the truth is, they have no case,” said the former president. When asked about the jury selection Trump said it was “largely luck” and “depends who you get.”&nbsp;

Trump has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat. This includes charges of accounting fraud and falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 payment to the adult film star ahead of the 2016 presidential election.&nbsp;

The prosecutors have also accused Trump of illegally covering up remittances to his long-time lawyer, Michael Cohen to reimburse him for payments about the Republican frontrunner’s alleged extramarital sexual relations with Daniels and a Playboy model.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The New York judge overseeing former United States President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump’s hush money criminal case, on Friday (Apr 12) rejected his latest bid to delay Monday’s trial.

The New York judge overseeing former United States President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump’s hush money criminal case, on Friday (Apr 12) rejected his latest bid to delay Monday’s trial. The order was passed on the ground that the substantial pre-trial publicity would make the proceedings unfair. ‘His own doing’ Trump lost yet another bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels. This comes after the former president faced a string of defeats in various courts to delay the beginning of the trial which will start on Monday with the jury selection. Trump, 77, is set to become the first-ever former US president to go on trial for criminal charges. The most recent delay denial came after he sought an indefinite postponement saying media coverage was prejudiced against him, which would make finding an acceptable jury in Manhattan difficult. Also Read | Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback He also claimed that the borough was “overwhelmingly biased” against him. However, in his decision on Friday, Judge Juan Merchan said an indefinite delay in the trial was “not tenable.” Trump “appears to take the position that his situation and this case are unique and that the pre-trial publicity will never subside. However, this view does not align with reality,” Judge Merchan wrote. He also noted how the former president himself is responsible for generating this publicity around his legal woes because of his statements. Merchan said that Trump was “personally responsible for generating much, if not most, of the surrounding publicity with his public statements” outside courtrooms and on social media. “The situation Defendant finds himself in now is not new to him and at least in part, of his own doing,” the judge added. He also said that questioning prospective jurors would address any concerns about their ability to be impartial. Trump lawyer Todd Blanche, in a court filing last month, argued that “potential jurors in Manhattan have been exposed to huge amounts of biased and unfair media coverage relating to this case.” Meanwhile, the prosecutors argued that the publicity was not likely to drop, and it would be “perverse” to reward the former president with a delay based on the media attention he is responsible for. ‘Very unfair’ Meanwhile, Trump on Friday, told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, that he planned on testifying during the trial and called the case a “scam,” and went on to call the trial “very unfair”. Also Read | Stormy Daniels hush money case: Trump’s historic criminal trial set for April 15 “All I can do is tell the truth…(and) the truth is, they have no case,” said the former president. When asked about the jury selection Trump said it was “largely luck” and “depends who you get.” Trump has pleaded not guilty to the 34-count indictment, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat. This includes charges of accounting fraud and falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 payment to the adult film star ahead of the 2016 presidential election. The prosecutors have also accused Trump of illegally covering up remittances to his long-time lawyer, Michael Cohen to reimburse him for payments about the Republican frontrunner’s alleged extramarital sexual relations with Daniels and a Playboy model. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump’s hush money case: Judge declines to delay historic trial over complaints of publicity

A New York appeals court judge Tuesday has denied Donald Trump’s request to delay the start of his New York hush money trial so he can challenge the gag order imposed by Judge Juan Merchan.

Associate Justice Cynthia Kern of New York denied the application for an interim stay shortly after hearing arguments on the issue on Tuesday.

While a full appeals court panel will continue to review Trump's petition, the trial's start will not be delayed as a result.

Trump's lawyer wanted to postpone the trial until a full panel of appellate court judges could consider arguments regarding the lifting or modification of a gag order preventing him from publicly discussing jurors, witnesses, and other individuals linked to the hush-money case.

<h2>Donald Trump hush money case: What is it about?</h2>

Donald Trump is accused of covering up his former lawyer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence before the 2016 presidential election about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump a decade earlier.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-stormy-daniels-the-porn-star-who-could-send-trump-to-jail-574948">Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the ex-porn star behind Trump hush money case trial?</a>

Trump has denied any such encounter with Daniels.

The hush money case&nbsp;is one of four criminal cases he faces.

The others are about&nbsp;his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden, and his handling of sensitive government documents after leaving the presidency in 2021. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

(With inputs from agencies)

A New York appeals court judge Tuesday has denied Donald Trump’s request to delay the start of his New York hush money trial so he can challenge the gag order imposed by Judge Juan Merchan.

A New York appeals court judge Tuesday has denied Donald Trump’s request to delay the start of his New York hush money trial so he can challenge the gag order imposed by Judge Juan Merchan. Associate Justice Cynthia Kern of New York denied the application for an interim stay shortly after hearing arguments on the issue on Tuesday. While a full appeals court panel will continue to review Trump's petition, the trial's start will not be delayed as a result. Trump's lawyer wanted to postpone the trial until a full panel of appellate court judges could consider arguments regarding the lifting or modification of a gag order preventing him from publicly discussing jurors, witnesses, and other individuals linked to the hush-money case. Donald Trump hush money case: What is it about? Donald Trump is accused of covering up his former lawyer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence before the 2016 presidential election about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump a decade earlier. Also read | Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the ex-porn star behind Trump hush money case trial? Trump has denied any such encounter with Daniels. The hush money case is one of four criminal cases he faces. The others are about his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden, and his handling of sensitive government documents after leaving the presidency in 2021. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges. (With inputs from agencies)

Appeals Judge rejects Trump’s bid to postpone start of hush money trial for gag order challenge

A New York judge on Monday (April 8) denied Donald Trump's bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels.&nbsp;

The development came after a half an hour hearing at&nbsp;the Appellate Division in Manhattan following which&nbsp;Associate Justice Lizbeth Gonzalez issued her decision.

A lawyer for Donald Trump, Emil Bove, said that his client was seeking to stay the case pending the application to move the trial. The prosecution retorted that&nbsp;Trump waited too long to object to being tried in Manhattan. The charges were brought in April 2023.

Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential candidate who looks set to challenge&nbsp;Democratic President Joe Biden in the Nov&nbsp;5 US election, has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records.

Also watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump hush money trial will start April 15, judge rules

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-donald-trump-hush-money-trial-will-start-april-15-judge-rules-704219/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It was not specified where exactly Trump's team would like the trial to be held.&nbsp;

The defence claimed&nbsp;that a survey taken by Trump's legal team of residents in&nbsp;Manhattan found that 61 per cent&nbsp;of respondents thought Trump was guilty, and 70 per cent had a negative opinion of him.

"There is real potential prejudice here to moving forward," Bove said. "Jury selection cannot proceed in a fair manner starting next week in this county."

The prosecution claimed that&nbsp;Trump cannot cite media attention as a reason to move the trial.

"He himself has been responsible for stoking that publicity," the prosecution said.

A criminal trial would be the first for a former US president in American history.

<h2>Donald Trump hush money case: What is it about?</h2>

Donald Trump is accused of covering up his former lawyer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence before the 2016 presidential election about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump a decade earlier.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-stormy-daniels-the-porn-star-who-could-send-trump-to-jail-574948">Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the ex-porn star behind Trump hush money case trial?</a>

Trump has denied any such encounter with Daniels.

The hush money case&nbsp;is one of four criminal cases he faces.

The others are about&nbsp;his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden, and his handling of sensitive government documents after leaving the presidency in 2021. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

(With inputs from agencies)

A New York judge on Monday (April 8) denied Donald Trump's bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels.

A New York judge on Monday (April 8) denied Donald Trump's bid to delay his April 15 criminal trial on charges related to paying hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels. The development came after a half an hour hearing at the Appellate Division in Manhattan following which Associate Justice Lizbeth Gonzalez issued her decision. A lawyer for Donald Trump, Emil Bove, said that his client was seeking to stay the case pending the application to move the trial. The prosecution retorted that Trump waited too long to object to being tried in Manhattan. The charges were brought in April 2023. Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential candidate who looks set to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in the Nov 5 US election, has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records. Also watch | Donald Trump hush money trial will start April 15, judge rules × It was not specified where exactly Trump's team would like the trial to be held. The defence claimed that a survey taken by Trump's legal team of residents in Manhattan found that 61 per cent of respondents thought Trump was guilty, and 70 per cent had a negative opinion of him. "There is real potential prejudice here to moving forward," Bove said. "Jury selection cannot proceed in a fair manner starting next week in this county." The prosecution claimed that Trump cannot cite media attention as a reason to move the trial. "He himself has been responsible for stoking that publicity," the prosecution said. A criminal trial would be the first for a former US president in American history. Donald Trump hush money case: What is it about? Donald Trump is accused of covering up his former lawyer Michael Cohen's $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence before the 2016 presidential election about a sexual encounter she said she had with Trump a decade earlier. Also read | Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the ex-porn star behind Trump hush money case trial? Trump has denied any such encounter with Daniels. The hush money case is one of four criminal cases he faces. The others are about his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden, and his handling of sensitive government documents after leaving the presidency in 2021. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump loses bid to delay hush money trial in major courtroom setback

hush-money-case

Hush Money Case, News on Hush Money Case, stories on Hush Money Case, articles on Hush Money Case, Hush Money Case stories at Wion, Hush Money Case news, Hush Money Case latest news

hush money-case