The ongoing trial of former US President Donald Trump in Manhattan focuses on his alleged involvement in hush money payments and employs a ‘catch-and-kill’ strategy to suppress negative stories during the 2016 presidential campaign. David Pecker, former publisher of the National Enquirer, has testified regarding his role in this strategy, alongside allegations involving payments to Playboy model Karen McDougal and adult film star Stormy Daniels to prevent detrimental information from affecting the election.

Parallel to this, in an opinion piece for the New York Times, former congresswoman Liz Cheney urged the US Supreme Court to expedite its decision on Trump’s claim of immunity from prosecution for his actions during his presidency. This plea is in context to another case facing Trump, regarding charges of federal election subversion following his attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. Cheney emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability before the upcoming November 2024 elections, stressing the urgency of proceeding with the trial without delay.

The cases underscore ongoing legal battles for Trump, marking the first criminal trials he faces that threaten his freedom in addition to his reputation. The outcomes of these trials could have significant implications for US politics, especially with regard to accountability and the legal precedent for presidential immunity.