Court Allows ‘Access Hollywood’ Tape In Trump Payment Case

In a significant ruling, a judge has declared that evidence related to the “Access Hollywood” tape is admissible in the hush money trial involving former President Donald Trump. This decision allows for a deeper examination of Trump’s motives in the alleged payments to Stormy Daniels. The tape, which captured Trump’s controversial comments about women, is considered pivotal to understanding the context of the hush payments.

Key takeaways

• Judge Juan Merchan allows testimony from Michael Cohen and Stormy Daniels.
• “Access Hollywood” tape evidence is admissible, but the tape itself won’t be played to jurors.
• The ruling emphasizes the tape’s relevance to Trump’s intent and motive.
• Trump faces 34 felony counts and has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
• The trial is postponed until at least mid-April.

The judge’s ruling permits key witnesses and evidence related to the “Access Hollywood” tape in the Trump hush money case, highlighting the tape’s role in establishing Trump’s intent.

Witness Testimonies Greenlit in Hush Money Case

Despite the defense’s objections, Judge Merchan has ruled that Michael Cohen, Trump’s former attorney, and adult film actress Stormy Daniels can testify in court. Cohen’s credibility was called into question by the defense, but the judge found no legal basis to exclude his testimony. Daniels, the recipient of the $130,000 payment, is considered a crucial witness due to her direct involvement in the case.

Understanding the Role of the “Access Hollywood” Tape

While the “Access Hollywood” tape will not be played for the jury, its contents can be discussed to shed light on Trump’s potential motivations for the alleged hush money payments. The judge’s ruling underscores the tape’s significance in illustrating Trump’s concerns about the impact of his comments on his presidential campaign, thereby establishing a possible motive for the payments.

Judge rules evidence related to the “Access Hollywood” tape admissible in Trump hush money trial, marking a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings. The decision to allow key witnesses and evidence aims to clarify Trump’s intentions regarding the hush money payments. As the trial approaches, the inclusion of this evidence could play a critical role in the case’s outcome, with former President Trump continuing to deny any wrongdoing.