Former President Donald Trump’s defense attorney, Todd Blanche, delivered an opening statement on Monday in which he argued that the 34-count indictment against his client was merely “34 pieces of paper.” Blanche maintained Trump’s innocence and asserted that the payments in question were not illegal.
According to multiple reports, Blanche implored the jury to view Trump beyond his public image as a former president and celebrity, emphasizing his roles as a husband, father, and ordinary citizen. He contended that the charges were politically motivated and had no basis in law.
Blanche further argued that Trump did not directly repay Michael Cohen the $130,000 paid to porn star Stormy Daniels, but rather signed checks for a larger sum of $420,000. He questioned why Trump would overpay a debt if he were guilty.
In contrast, prosecutor Matthew Colangelo framed the payments as part of a broader conspiracy to influence the 2016 election. Blanche, however, defended the nondisclosure agreement with Daniels, arguing that it was legal and common practice in the political arena.
Blanche also attacked Cohen’s credibility as the prosecution’s star witness, citing his admitted history of lying and his expressed desire to see Trump imprisoned. He highlighted Cohen’s previous convictions for tax evasion, false statements to a bank, and campaign finance violations.
Blanche’s opening statement set the stage for the trial, as both sides aim to convince the jury of their respective narratives.
