The hush money trial of former US President Donald Trump is currently underway in Manhattan, New York. As of its 11th day, key testimonies have come from lawyer Keith Davidson, who discussed his dealings with Michael Cohen and the National Enquirer concerning Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal. Another significant development was forensic analyst Douglas Daul’s testimony regarding the data found on Cohen’s cellphone. A recorded conversation between Cohen and Davidson was played, indicating a discussion about Trump.

The focus of the trial is on allegations that Trump and associates participated in an unlawful attempt to affect the 2016 presidential election by suppressing damaging stories through hush money payments. Trump faces 34 felony counts for allegedly falsifying business records to conceal these payments. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Adding a cultural twist to the proceedings, Jimmy Kimmel, the host of “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” expressed a strong desire to testify after his show was cited in court documents. His 2018 interview with Daniels occurred post Trump’s State of the Union address, during which Daniels appeared to deny signing a nondisclosure agreement. Kimmel humorously lamented not being called to testify, despite the significance of his interview with Daniels being highlighted in court.

The trial took a more contentious turn when Trump’s defense attorney brought up disparaging posts made by Michael Cohen about Trump, including the mocking nickname “Von S****InPantz,” which was spoken in court. This occurred during arguments relating to a gag order that restricts Trump from making certain statements, which the judge decided to uphold despite the defense’s objections.

This trial stands out as it marks the first instance of a former US president being tried in court, with developments continuing to unfold at the Manhattan criminal court.