Donald Trump, the first former US president to be criminally charged, is set to face trial in New York. The trial, presided over by Judge Juan Merchan and led by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, involves allegations related to a hush-money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels, real name Stephanie Clifford, during the 2016 election. The allegations suggest Trump paid Daniels $130,000 through his former lawyer Michael Cohen to silence her about an alleged affair dating back to 2006.

Prosecutors claim Trump falsified business records to conceal the payment, a charge that could result in up to four years in prison. The trial’s focal points include the legality of the reimbursement Trump made to Cohen and whether the funds were recorded appropriately.

Trump’s legal team, led by Todd Blanche, has disputed the charges, maintaining his innocence and challenging the political motivations behind the trial. The defense has also attempted to restrict Daniels from testifying. However, both Daniels and Cohen are expected to be key witnesses, with Cohen turning state’s witness against his former employer.

The proceedings, expected to last six to eight weeks, have sparked significant media attention given Trump’s pivotal role in US politics and his potential candidacy in the 2024 presidential race. The trial outcome could profoundly impact his political and personal future.