In New York, the Court of Appeals rejected Donald Trump’s request to halt the trial against him for falsifying business records. Trump is accused of paying off Stormy Daniels, a former porn star, with a cash payment to keep her quiet about an alleged affair in 2006.
During the trial, lawyer Keith Davidson testified as a witness, recounting negotiations that led to an agreement between Trump’s lawyer at the time, Michael Cohen, and Daniels for a cash payment. Davidson also revealed that there was a close relationship between Trump and the former editor of the National Enquirer, David Pecker. He testified that Pecker’s tabloid bought Karen McDougal’s story about an alleged affair with Trump in 2006 to prevent it from being published during the 2016 presidential campaign.
On Thursday, the trial resumed and Trump was fined $9,000 for violating a gag order imposed by the judge. He argued that his constitutional rights were violated as he left the courtroom. The case continues in New York with more testimony and evidence expected to be presented.