Cohen, the source of crucial links between the Daniels payment and the charges that Trump faces, has yet to testify. But Trump's lawyers argue that he is a vindictive former loyalist who "cannot be trusted."

Cohen "cheated on his taxes, he lied to banks, [and] he lied about side businesses he had with taxi medallions, among other things," Blanche told the jury. He was "disbarred as an attorney, he's a convicted felon, and he also is a convicted perjurer." According to Blanche, Cohen had a grudge against Trump, because he "wanted a job in the administration" and "didn't get one." He therefore decided to "blame President Trump for virtually all of his problems." Cohen is "obsessed with Trump," Blanche said. He "rants and raves" about his former boss on podcasts and social media and "has talked extensively about his desire to see President Trump go to prison."

Even Pecker, who had a relationship with Cohen that long predated the 2016 election, portrayed him as difficult, badgering, hotheaded, and extremely unpleasant. While all that may be legally irrelevant, Pecker's testimony also suggested that Cohen was dishonest and unreliable, repeatedly promising to reimburse Pecker for the Sajudin and McDougal payments, which he never did.

This is the guy that prosecutors will be presenting as their star witness.