Trump Slams NY Court System, Boasts 'Empire State' Victory

Former President Trump has decried the New York v. Trump trial as a "witch hunt" and "show trial," claiming the judge should dismiss the case. The prosecution has rested its case after days of testimony from star witness Michael Cohen, while Trump's defense attorneys have called for a dismissal, arguing there is no evidence of wrongdoing.

Former President Donald Trump has vehemently denounced the ongoing New York v. Trump trial, labeling it a "witch hunt" and a "show trial." Trump's fiery remarks follow the prosecution's completion of its case against him, which focused on allegations that he falsified business records to conceal a $130,000 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

Trump maintains his innocence and has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense attorneys have asserted that the prosecution has failed to establish any fraudulent intent on Trump's part. They have also sought to discredit Cohen's testimony, highlighting his previous admissions of lying under oath.

On Monday, Trump's defense team presented its own witnesses, including paralegal Daniel Sitko and former legal adviser to Michael Cohen, Robert Costello. Sitko testified that Cohen had made numerous phone calls to Costello in which he allegedly claimed that Trump had no knowledge of the payment to Daniels. Costello corroborated this, stating that Cohen had repeatedly assured him that Trump was unaware of the matter.

However, Costello's testimony was marred by several clashes with presiding Judge Juan Merchan. Costello expressed visible disapproval of Merchan's rulings, prompting the judge to clear the courtroom and admonish Costello for his conduct.

After the prosecution rested its case, Trump's defense attorneys moved to dismiss the charges, arguing that there is no evidence that Trump falsified any business records. Defense attorney Todd Blanche asserted that there was no intent to mislead or conceal, and that Cohen's testimony is unreliable due to his history of lying.

The prosecution, however, maintained that the law allows for punishment of anyone who "causes" the falsification of business records. Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo argued that Trump's actions set in motion the sequence of events that led to the alleged record-keeping violations.

Judge Merchan reserved judgment on the defense's motion to dismiss, indicating that he would make a ruling before jury deliberations commence.

Trump, who is not expected to testify in his own defense, has expressed confidence in a favorable outcome. He has repeatedly boasted that he will "win" in the "Empire State" and has criticized the New York judicial system.

Closing arguments are scheduled for next Tuesday, with the jury set to begin deliberations thereafter. The outcome of the trial remains uncertain, with both sides expressing optimism in their respective cases.