Jury in Trump Trial to Commence Second Day of Deliberations
Jurors are deliberating for a second day in Donald Trump’s legal expenses trial, closely examining key witnesses as they decide the fate of the first U.S. president facing criminal charges.
The 12 jurors and six alternates are reviewing the case, which could impact Trump’s future political ambitions, including a possible run for the White House in the upcoming election.
If convicted, Trump’s ability to campaign or potentially take office if elected will not be affected.
Jurors have asked for further guidance from Justice Juan Merchan as they navigate the complexities of the case.
New York prosecutors have accused Trump, 77, of falsifying business records related to a payment made to lawyer Michael Cohen for services rendered to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election. Trump maintains his innocence, claiming the payment was a legitimate legal expense.
The jurors are scrutinizing the testimony of Michael Cohen, a key witness who alleges Trump authorized payments to prevent damaging information from impacting his candidacy in 2016.
In their deliberations, jurors have also requested transcripts of Cohen’s testimony and testimony from David Pecker, the former publisher of the National Enquirer.
Trump’s defense team has raised doubts about Cohen’s credibility due to his criminal history, while prosecutors argue that supporting evidence corroborates his claims.
Should the jurors fail to reach a unanimous verdict, a mistrial may be declared by Justice Merchan.
The burden of proof lies with the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, who must demonstrate Trump’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
A guilty verdict could impact Trump’s popularity according to opinion polls, but the final outcome remains uncertain.
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