During the hush money trial of former President Trump, Florida Judge Jeff Swartz commended David Pecker, the former publisher of the National Enquirer, as an exceptional and highly credible witness. Judge Swartz referred to Pecker as “outstanding” and praised his testimony for its credibility.
During his appearance on CNN, Swartz expressed his belief that David Pecker was an excellent choice as the first witness. Swartz emphasized that Pecker not only set the stage but also established the entire scene for the jury.
He was exceptional during cross-examination,” he added. “I don’t believe he was significantly discredited. I anticipate that his testimony will serve as a foundation for further evidence. The jury was fully engaged and attentive to his words. His credibility was unquestionable, which greatly bolstered the prosecution’s case.”
According to Swartz, a law professor, he praised Pecker’s performance during cross-examination and mentioned that Trump’s lawyers did not do much to undermine his credibility.
According to Swartz, there was a significant increase in the intensity of stories published by AMI during the presidential campaign between Trump and Clinton. He mentioned that this escalation was a deliberate effort to support the campaign and ensure its success.
Pecker became the inaugural witness in Trump’s initial criminal trial. Throughout his four-day testimony, he illuminated the National Enquirer’s involvement in suppressing unfavorable stories about the ex-president while simultaneously publishing false negative stories about his adversaries.
During the redirect examination, prosecutor Joshua Steinglass inquired if the stories were suppressed to aid a presidential candidate, specifically referring to Trump.
Pecker confirmed, “Yes, I did.”
Rhona Graff, the former president’s longtime executive assistant, was the second witness to take the stand.
Swartz urged the prosecutors to handle more of the records to assist with Michael Cohen as they continued to construct their case against the ex-president.
“I believe they will also bring in other campaign workers to further highlight Mr. Trump’s attitude, his displayed anger, and his fear of potential revelations regarding the campaign. These discussions that occurred during the campaign will provide the context for Michael Cohen to conclude the narrative,” he explained.