Donald Trump's lawyers concluded their defense in his criminal hush money trial without Trump testifying. The jury will return for closing arguments next week. Trump, confident for closing arguments, did not explain his decision not to testify. During the trial break, he plans to campaign, including a fundraiser with oil executives in Houston. Trump had reportedly asked for a billion-dollar campaign donation from them. His lawyers likely advised against testifying to avoid self-incrimination.
Outside the court, Trump criticized Judge Juan Marchand, escalating attacks on his heritage. This behavior is not new for Trump, but the intensity of his remarks is notable. The ongoing campaign focuses on issues like abortion rights and contraception. Trump's vague response on supporting restrictions on contraception raised concerns. Democrats are likely to use this to highlight potential policy changes under a second Trump presidency.
The confusion between contraception and the abortion pill, Miffa-Pristone, in Trump's statements provides Democrats with ammunition to sway voters, especially suburban women. Trump's history with controversial statements and legal battles continues to shape public perception as the trial progresses.
