In the unfolding legal proceedings against former President Donald Trump, Stormy Daniels recently concluded her testimony, steadfastly denying allegations of fabricating an affair for profit. This development came as Judge Juan Merchan dismissed motions to ease restrictions on Trump’s public commentary and to declare a mistrial based on claims of prejudicial testimony.
During an intense cross-examination led by Trump’s attorney Susan Necheles, Daniels was directly asked if her account of the affair was a fabrication aimed at financial gain. According to courtroom reports from the New York Times, Daniels firmly responded, “No!” and maintained her composure amid Necheles’s persistent questioning.
Following Daniels’s testimony, the court heard from Rebecca Manochio, a junior bookkeeper for the Trump Organization. She disclosed her role in managing checks believed to be part of a hush money payment to Daniels, which were signed by Trump and sent through intermediaries, told AP News.
Additionally, Tracey Menzies from HarperCollins and former White House executive assistant Madeleine Westerhout provided insights into Trump’s business dealings and his involvement in the approval of financial transactions during his presidency.
As the trial day ended, Judge Merchan considered the defense’s requests regarding Trump’s gag order and the motion for a mistrial. The judge decided against both, citing a lack of trust in the restraint Trump would maintain in his public statements and the necessity for the jury to hear detailed testimony to assess its credibility accurately.
The trial is set to continue with further testimonies, including from Westerhout, offering deeper insights into Trump’s interactions and business operations.