Trump's Legal Counsel Fires Back At Former Lawyer Michael Cohen In Cross-Examination: 'You're Not On Your Podcast'

In the ongoing New York civil fraud trial against Donald Trump, the cross-examination of key witness Michael Cohen escalated into a heated exchange with defense attorney Alina Habba on Tuesday.

What Happened: Cohen, who previously served as Trump’s lawyer, remained calm under intense questioning from Habba, Business Insider reported. Habba frequently interrupted Cohen’s responses and, at one point, reminded him that this was a court proceeding, not his podcast “Mea Culpa.”

“You’re not on your podcast,” she added.

Justice Arthur Engoron of the New York Supreme Court cautioned Habba for making statements rather than asking relevant questions. Habba is expected to continue her cross-examination of Cohen on Wednesday.

“So you have lied under oath numerous times, Mr. Cohen?” was a typical query, as was “So you lied?”

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The defense counsel’s aggressive attempt to discredit Cohen was predictable, given his role as one of Trump’s most significant legal threats. Cohen had previously admitted to misleading Congress regarding Trump’s plans to construct a Trump Tower in Moscow during the 2016 elections.

Habba also scrutinized Cohen about his 2019 tax plea and whether he had informed his wife about his perjury, to which Cohen confirmed he had.

Why It Matters: The trial, in its fourth week, has seen Trump back in the courtroom, even though his presence is not mandatory. The former president labeled Cohen as a “disgraced felon” as he exited the courtroom.

The case against the former president revolves around a high-profile civil fraud accusation lodged by the state of New York. Cohen’s testimony is pivotal in this case, given his previous position as Trump's lawyer.

Last week, Cohen’s testimony was postponed due to health concerns. With his health issues resolved, Cohen’s testimony, which is expected to span over two days, has begun.

Photo by a katz on Shutterstock

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