A notable presence of Donald Trump’s allies is observed outside the Manhattan courthouse as his hush money trial continues. Former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy makes a vocal appearance, denouncing the case against Trump as a “sham.” Ramaswamy calls for an investigation into a family member of the presiding judge, adding another layer of controversy to the high-profile trial.
Joining Ramaswamy are North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and Florida Congressman Byron Donalds, both expressing their support for Trump and criticizing the judicial proceedings. House Speaker Mike Johnson also visits the courthouse, asserting that the justice system is being weaponized against Trump to derail his campaign efforts.
On Monday, Senators J.D. Vance and Tommy Tuberville appeared alongside Trump outside the courtroom, further emphasizing the former president’s significant backing within the Republican Party. Vance, in particular, is speculated to be on the shortlist for Trump’s potential running mate.
Inside the courtroom, the cross-examination of Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer, draws intense scrutiny. Cohen, who previously testified that he directed adult film star Stormy Daniels’ lawyer to lie about her alleged 2006 sexual encounter with Trump, admits on the stand that he has been selling anti-Trump merchandise during the trial, including t-shirts depicting Trump behind bars.
House Speaker Mike Johnson lends his support to Donald Trump outside the Manhattan courthouse, where the former president is facing a hush money trial. Johnson criticizes the justice system, claiming it has been weaponized to prevent Trump from focusing on his presidential campaign. By appearing at the courthouse, Johnson joins a growing list of Trump allies who publicly back him, emphasizing the Republican Party’s continued support for Trump amid his legal challenges. Johnson’s presence highlights the deep political implications of the trial and the solidarity among Trump’s supporters in their critique of the legal proceedings.
Cohen’s cross-examination is a critical moment for the prosecution, as he is the final witness in their case. He reiterates that he paid Daniels $130,000 at Trump’s direction to ensure her silence before the 2016 election, leading to charges that Trump falsified business records to conceal the payment.
Former Trump attorney Jim Trusty criticizes the prosecution’s decision to close with Cohen, suggesting it may undermine their case given Cohen’s efforts to profit from his testimony. Trusty argues that Cohen’s credibility is compromised by his commercial activities related to the trial.
The trial continues to captivate public and media attention, with each development being closely followed. The presence of high-profile Trump allies outside the courthouse and the contentious testimonies within underscore the trial’s significant political and legal ramifications.
