Key conversation recorded by Cohen emerges as evidence in Trump’s trial, intensifying the legal battle over hush money payments

In the ongoing hush-money trial, the prosecution has presented a key piece of evidence: a recorded conversation between former U.S. President Donald Trump and his former lawyer Michael Cohen. The recording, made public on May 2, 2024, is central to the charges that Trump was involved in efforts to silence adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election campaign.

The prosecution claims that Trump played a significant role in orchestrating the hush money deal. The recording reportedly reveals a conversation in which Cohen and Trump discuss arrangements surrounding the payment to Daniels, who had alleged an affair with Trump. The defense is expected to counter the claims, focusing on the technicalities of the legal process.

As the trial continues, tensions rise between Trump’s legal team and those representing Daniels. The defense has expressed that the statements from Daniels’ lawyer, Keith Davidson, may be used strategically to their advantage in undermining the case.

In other developments, Trump’s legal team has argued that the gag order imposed on the former president limits his First Amendment rights. The judge presiding over the trial appeared skeptical of this argument, questioning whether Trump’s comments were intentionally disruptive.

Meanwhile, Trump appeared in court on May 2, dressed in a navy suit and marigold tie, a slight deviation from his usual attire. Legal experts and observers are closely watching the trial as it continues to unfold, with the prosecution seeking to use the recording to reinforce their case of campaign finance violations linked to the hush-money deal.