A Los Angeles-based attorney continued testifying in the criminal trial of former President Donald Trump on Thursday, shedding light on the aftermath of a controversial “hush money” payment central to the case. Keith Davidson shared details of his representation of Stormy Daniels in negotiations with Michael Cohen, Trump’s attorney at the time, during the final stages of the 2016 presidential campaign. Daniels agreed to keep her alleged encounter with Trump confidential in exchange for $130,000, which was paid by Cohen.
Earlier in the week, Davidson also discussed his work for Karen McDougal, who claimed to have had a similar encounter with Trump. McDougal received $150,000 from the parent company of the National Enquirer for her story, although it was never published. Prosecutors argue that these payments were part of a scheme to benefit Trump’s campaign.
Cohen is expected to testify as a key witness against Trump in the trial, where the former president faces 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records. Trump has maintained his innocence and denied any sexual encounters with Daniels or McDougal.
During his testimony, Davidson recounted the aftermath of the 2016 election, revealing conversations with Cohen who expressed disappointment over not being brought to Washington for a role in the new administration. Additionally, Davidson detailed the events surrounding the disclosure of the Daniels payment in 2018, including tense exchanges with Cohen threatening legal action.
The trial also featured a hearing on whether Trump should be held in contempt for allegedly violating a gag order imposed by Judge Juan Merchan. Prosecutors sought fines for the violations, but no decision was immediately issued. Meanwhile, Davidson’s testimony provided insights into the settlement agreement between Daniels and Trump, as well as the efforts made to minimize the impact of the Daniels story going public.
As the trial progresses, Davidson’s testimony sheds light on the complex web of negotiations and legal maneuvers surrounding the hush money payments. The interactions between Cohen, Davidson, and their respective clients offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes drama that unfolded after Trump’s election victory in 2016. The trial continues to unravel the intricate details of the case, revealing the lengths to which individuals went to protect their interests amidst a high-stakes political environment.