In a recent interview on MSNBC’s “The Weekend,” Michael Cohen, once a loyal confidant to former President Trump but now a vocal critic, raised concerns about the potential ramifications of Trump returning to the White House amidst mounting legal and financial challenges.
Cohen emphasized the need for caution regarding Trump’s candidacy, highlighting his susceptibility to outside influences due to his significant financial burdens. With Trump facing the daunting task of raising over $500 million in a relatively short timeframe, Cohen suggested that Trump’s vulnerability to being influenced by financial interests could pose a threat if he were to reassume the presidency.
The discussion arose in the wake of a significant legal setback for Trump, as a New York court ruled him liable for nearly $355 million in penalties in a civil fraud case related to his family business. This legal blow came as a result of allegations by New York Attorney General Letitia James that Trump had manipulated his net worth on financial documents to obtain tax and insurance benefits, as well as to secure favorable loans and deals, constituting fraudulent behavior.
Cohen pointed to Trump’s track record of legal troubles, including a recent defamation case in which he was ordered to pay $83.3 million for defaming E. Jean Carroll, as evidence of his vulnerability. When the possibility of outside influences on Trump, such as foreign entities like the Saudis or Russians, was raised, Cohen agreed that Trump was indeed “thoroughly compromised.”
Trump also faces indictments in four criminal cases, with trials pending in Georgia and New York. The upcoming trial in New York, related to hush money payments, is particularly significant, with Cohen slated to testify as a witness.
In summary, Cohen’s warning underscores the potential dangers of Trump’s return to power amidst ongoing legal battles and financial entanglements, raising concerns about his susceptibility to outside influence and the integrity of the presidency.