Defense Rests Case in Trump NY 'Hush Money' Trial

Defense Rests Case in Trump NY 'Hush Money' Trial
Above: Family and supporters of former US President Donald Trump look on as he speaks to the media as he arrives for his trial for allegedly covering up hush money payments at Manhattan Criminal Court on May 21, 2024 in New York City. Image copyright: Pool/Pool/Getty Images News via Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-Trump narrative

If this case were brought in any other district it would've been thrown out immediately, but Judge Merchan is a loyal Democratic activist. While allowing Cohen to make unethical claims about campaign finance violations on the one hand, Merchan has become visibly perturbed when listening to Costello completely dismantle Cohen's testimony. Hopefully, the jury will see through Merchan's bias and conclude that Cohen is a criminal trying to smear Trump to save himself.

Anti-Trump narrative

The prosecution is clearly winning, so the only saving grace Trump has now is knowing he can delay his likely prison time through appeals. While team Trump whines about a so-called corrupt court, they're ignoring the fact that he's been incredibly lucky regarding the delays in all the other cases against him that are currently awaiting trial. The American people may be tired of hearing about these court cases, but they should remain focused until Trump is finally in prison.

Metaculus Prediction


Public Figures


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