The eagerly anticipated testimony of Michael Cohen, Donald Trump’s former lawyer and confidant, is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the hush money trial against the former American president. As Cohen prepares to take the stand on Monday, all eyes are on his testimony, which could potentially alter the course of this landmark criminal case.

Cohen’s appearance as the star prosecution witness marks a significant milestone in the trial, signaling that the proceedings are entering a critical phase. Prosecutors are expected to rely heavily on Cohen’s testimony, as he holds intimate knowledge of Trump’s activities, particularly concerning the hush money payments made during his presidential campaign.

Central to Cohen’s testimony will be his role in arranging payments, including to porn actor Stormy Daniels, in an effort to suppress damaging information about Trump’s alleged extramarital affairs. The $130,000 payment to Daniels, intended to silence her about a purported sexual encounter with Trump, forms a key part of the prosecution’s case.

Moreover, Cohen’s reimbursement for these payments is the basis for the charges against Trump, alleging falsification of business records. Prosecutors contend that these reimbursements were falsely classified as legal expenses to conceal their true purpose.

However, Cohen’s credibility as a witness is likely to be fiercely contested by the defense, who have characterized him as an “admitted liar” with a personal vendetta against Trump. Despite his cooperation with prosecutors and guilty pleas to federal charges, including campaign finance violations and lying to Congress, Cohen’s past actions raise doubts about his reliability as a witness.

Nevertheless, Cohen’s testimony is expected to provide crucial insights into Trump’s involvement in the hush money scheme, shedding light on the extent of his knowledge and culpability. His testimony could potentially elevate the legal jeopardy facing Trump if jurors find him sufficiently credible.

Yet, politically, Cohen’s checkered past and contentious relationship with Trump could backfire for prosecutors, providing ammunition for Trump to portray the case as politically motivated. Trump has seized on Cohen’s past misdeeds to cast doubt on the integrity of the criminal justice system and rally support among his base.

As the trial unfolds, Cohen’s testimony will undoubtedly be scrutinized by both sides, with the potential to sway the jury’s perception of Trump’s culpability. Whether his testimony proves decisive in securing a conviction remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Cohen’s appearance on the witness stand marks a critical juncture in the legal battle against the former president.