Hope Hicks, former Trump campaign and White House communications director, delivered scathing testimony during Trump’s ongoing criminal trial, as reported by Fox News on Friday, May 3, 2024.
Hicks’ testimony offered insights into the tumultuous atmosphere within the campaign and the actions of Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer, whom Hicks described as a source of frustration among staff.
During her testimony, Hicks made a striking remark about Cohen, stating, “Mr. Cohen used to like to call himself Mr. Fix It, but it was only because he first broke it.”
The trial revolves around allegations against Trump, particularly concerning falsified business records related to a payment made to Stormy Daniels in 2016 to silence her claims of an affair with Trump.
Cohen, who orchestrated the $130,000 payment to Daniels, is a key figure in the investigation. The prosecution alleges that Trump reimbursed Cohen for the payment, disguising it as legal expenses.
Trump, denying the affair, has pleaded not guilty to the 34 criminal counts against him.
Hicks’ testimony also touched upon Trump’s reaction to the infamous “Access Hollywood” tape, where he made crude remarks about women before the 2016 election.
Although the prosecution sought to introduce the tape as evidence, arguing its relevance to Trump’s motives surrounding the Stormy Daniels payment, Judge Juan Merchan ruled it inadmissible due to its prejudicial nature.
Hicks revealed that Trump’s primary concern after the tape’s leak was its impact on his wife, Melania Trump, emphasizing his respect for her opinion.
Despite Melania’s infrequent involvement, Hicks stated that Trump values her input, particularly regarding sensitive matters.
Trump reportedly requested that newspapers containing stories about the leaked tape not be brought to the Trump residence, indicating his desire to shield his family from embarrassment.
Hicks emphasized Trump’s intention for his family to be proud of him during the campaign, highlighting his concern about avoiding hurt or embarrassment to his loved ones.
The prosecution’s argument pivots on the notion that the “Access Hollywood” tape’s release instigated panic within the campaign, prompting the decision to pay off Stormy Daniels. They contend that the payment aimed to protect Trump’s image and campaign prospects rather than for genuine legal purposes.
