By I. Hansana, Jadetimes News
Jurors in New York have started deliberations to decide if Donald Trump will be the first former US president to be convicted of a crime. At 77, Trump is charged with 34 criminal offenses consisting of changing business records linked to his ex lawyer Michael Cohen’s $130,000 hush money payment for porn star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election.
Justice Juan Merchan provided jurors with legal instructions on Wednesday, emphasizing the need to base their decision solely on the evidence and law, disregarding personal biases. Now, after more than six weeks of argument from both sides that include prosecutors and Trump’s defense attorneys; twelve jury members must make up their mind.
The outcome of this trial could greatly affect the 2024 presidential race in which Trump is running as a candidate. Although conviction would not mean he cannot run or take office if elected, according to Reuters Ipsos polling it might influence some voters towards him. A not guilty verdict would eliminate a major legal obstacle and open way for Trump to concentrate on his campaign. In the event that he is found guilty, President Trump has been expected to appeal against such decision. Additionally there are three other charges awaiting him however none are likely to be heard before November elections.
Biden's campaign officials assert that the verdict will not significantly alter the election dynamics. Trump has maintained his position that the trial is a politically motivated “witch hunt,” repeating these claims on social media as he entered the courtroom without comment.
During the trial, Stormy Daniels testified about her alleged 2006 sexual encounter with Trump, and Cohen detailed the payment made to silence her during Trump's 2016 campaign. Prosecutors argue that the payment helped Trump defeat Democrat Hillary Clinton by preventing an unflattering story from becoming public. They allege Trump repaid Cohen in disguised monthly installments.
To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Trump falsified records to conceal or commit another crime. Trump has denied the allegations and any sexual involvement with Daniels. His defense argues that Cohen, a convicted felon, lied about Trump's involvement in the payment and reimbursement scheme. "He is literally the greatest liar of all time," Trump's lawyer, Todd Blanche, told jurors.