TL/DR –
Donald Trump’s criminal trial has been characterized by presentations from lawyers and witnesses, with former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen explaining his break from Trump. A selection of Trump’s Republican allies, including a governor and a former presidential candidate, have entered the courtroom, and the prosecutors are using Cohen’s testimony despite attempts to discredit him. The trial is revealing Trump’s tactics and behavior over the years, which include using allies as bullies, prioritizing appearances, and requiring shows of loyalty, all while having a series of high-profile allies and figures join him in the courtroom.
Trump’s Trial Highlights his Unique Operating Style
As Donald J. Trump’s criminal trial proceeds, a constant lack of distractions maintains courtroom tension. The scenario is highlighted by armed court officers and Secret Service agents, Michael D. Cohen’s testimony, and the unexpected arrival of Trump’s Republican allies. They serve as stark examples of the loyalty that Trump’s former fixer, Cohen, once expressed and later disowned.
Key to the narrative spun by the Manhattan district attorney’s office is Trump’s operating style. Be it prosecutors banking on Cohen’s testimony or attack on Cohen’s credibility by Trump’s lead lawyer Todd Blanche, the trial underscores Trump’s favored tactics—using allies as bullies, obsessing over the press, promoting beauty, and encouraging loyalty demonstrations.
Trump’s court days start with a scowl for the cameras, reflecting his desire to project toughness. Accompanying him in court is Boris Epshteyn, his top legal adviser, who previously worked with Blanche and helped him gain a foothold in Trump’s team.
The courtroom also saw Epshteyn, indicted in Arizona over efforts to establish a group of false electors to retain Trump in power post the 2020 election loss. The testimony of former female aides too revealed Trump’s obsession with beauty and his endeavors to appear surrounded by attractive women.
Trump’s demand for loyalty is evident from the number of elected officials or former candidates turning up to defend him. Initially, Trump was alone despite discussions within his circle about potential attendees. However, his desire for more allies in the court was communicated and met response from politicians aware of how Trump values loyalty.
The presence of two contenders for Trump’s running mate, Vivek Ramaswamy and J.D. Vance, also showcases their support for a potential nominee. Inside the courthouse, Trump’s entourage pushes the limits of what the court rules permit, with allies exploiting exceptions extended to lawyers and support staff.
Despite a ban on photography and video-recording inside state courtrooms, news cameras in the hallway have allowed Trump to communicate with the press. His supporters have used this opportunity to create content to back him.
Trump’s allies have openly stated their aim to attack trial witnesses, a strategy that Trump could not adopt due to a gag order, which he was fined for violating. On Tuesday, some of these allies even filmed a video within the defense’s holding room, further testing the rules.
In conclusion, whether expecting more supporters or not, Trump’s entourage already includes multiple Congress members, as well as Epshteyn and Eric Trump, all waiting for Cohen’s cross-examination.
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