Stormy Daniels, an adult film actress, began her testimony in a New York courtroom, detailing an alleged encounter with former President Donald Trump that took place nearly two decades ago. The trial, which captured significant media and public attention, centers on accusations that Trump’s lawyer paid Daniels $130,000 as part of a hush-money arrangement to prevent her from discussing a sexual encounter with Trump ahead of the 2016 presidential election. The payment was allegedly disguised as legal expenses.

The testimony unfolded with Daniels describing the genesis of the alleged encounter at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe, leading to a night in a hotel suite where she claims Trump made advances towards her. Throughout her recount, Trump, who has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty, displayed visible reactions, suggesting discomfort as Daniels spoke.

Daniels was cross-examined in front of a packed courtroom, including journalists and public onlookers. The tension in the room was palpable, with frequent interruptions asking Daniels to slow down for the court stenographer.

As the trial progresses, both the defense and the prosecution are preparing for further exchanges, with the world watching closely how this high-stakes legal drama between two high-profile figures will unfold.