New York City, New York – Jurors in the criminal trial of former President Donald Trump heard testimony on Tuesday from attorney Keith Davidson, who represented two women alleging sexual encounters with Trump in 2016. Davidson detailed negotiations leading up to the 2016 election, where one woman received $150,000 from the parent company of the National Enquirer, and the other received $150,000 from Trump’s personal attorney Michael Cohen.
Trump has denied the women’s allegations and faces 34 felony counts related to business record falsification. Prosecutors claim he hid reimbursements to Cohen for the payment to Stormy Daniels, covering up the nature of the payment.
During the trial, Davidson discussed extensive communications with Cohen and Dylan Howard, the Enquirer’s editor. Text messages and emails were presented, showing Davidson’s involvement in negotiating deals with both women, McDougal and Daniels.
Davidson explained his representation of McDougal in June 2016, highlighting conversations with Howard about a potential story involving Trump. Discussions indicated a preference for dealing with AMI, as they wouldn’t require McDougal to speak publicly. Davidson expressed understanding that silence would benefit both Trump and McDougal.
Moving on to the Daniels case, negotiations intensified in October 2016 following the release of the “Access Hollywood” tape. Davidson mentioned interactions with Howard and Gina Rodriguez, Daniels’ talent agent, regarding a failed agreement with AMI.
Testimony revealed Davidson’s efforts to secure a $130,000 payment for Daniels, with Cohen eventually wiring the funds after delays. Cohen’s involvement and evasiveness led to strained relations, ultimately resulting in the termination of the agreement.
In addition to the payment details, Davidson’s testimony shed light on a disregard for Cohen’s promises, reflecting a lack of trust throughout the transaction process. The trial also involved details of Cohen’s financial maneuverings to fulfill the payment.
Finally, the court addressed Trump’s contempt order for violating a gag order in his public statements regarding the case. Judge Juan Merchan imposed a $9,000 fine and instructed Trump to delete the offending posts. Merchan also warned of potential incarceration for continued violations, emphasizing the seriousness of disobeying court orders.
The day concluded with a focus on Cohen’s financial actions and the reasons behind the scrutiny of payments related to political candidates or adult film stars. Farro, Cohen’s former banker, detailed the urgency and secrecy surrounding the financial transactions, providing insights into the complexities of handling such deals.