In the ongoing trial in Manhattan regarding hush money payments, former U.S. President Donald Trump faced new developments on the fifth day of proceedings. Trump was fined $9,000 for breaching a gag order but received court permission to attend his son Barron’s graduation. The trial, related to events preceding the 2016 U.S. presidential election, involves payments made to adult film stars Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, purportedly to silence them about alleged affairs with Trump.

Key testimonies came from Michael Cohen’s banker and attorney Keith Davidson, who detailed his role in arranging the payments. Davidson discussed his efforts in brokering confidentiality agreements to prevent the women from going public with their stories. Details also emerged about pseudonyms used in these agreements, with Daniels referred to as Peggy Peterson and Trump as David Dennison.

The trial exposed a text message conversation between Davidson and an editor at the National Enquirer, revealing skepticism about Trump’s finances and concerns over the feasibility of fulfilling the payment to Daniels. The dialogue depicted a chaotic scene, underscored by Cohen’s described behavior, which likened him to a “highly excitable” cartoon character.

Judge Merchan warned of potential jail time for Trump should he continue to violate the gag order. The unfolding trial continues to unravel the complex measures allegedly taken by Trump and his associates to maintain secrecy during his campaign. Further revelations are anticipated as the proceedings advance.