The experience of working on Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, as explained by his former spokesperson in a criminal trial

Hope Hicks, who served as communications director for former President Donald Trump from 2016 to 2018, testified in court for nearly three hours on Friday in the trial against her former boss in New York. She provided insight into what it was like to work during Trump’s time in the White House.

During her testimony, Hicks was questioned by prosecutors and appeared nervous, but maintained composure in her answers. However, she became emotional and began to cry when the defense took over questioning. This prompted the judge to order a recess in the trial, in which Trump faces 34 charges, including falsifying documents related to an extramarital affair with an adult film actress.

Hicks recounted conversations she had with Trump and his associate Michael Cohen in 2016 regarding the adult film actress Stormy Daniels and a hush payment. She described her relationship with Trump as one of mutual respect and emphasized his involvement in shaping the campaign’s communication strategy during the 2016 election.

The testimony also touched on the infamous Access Hollywood tape in which Trump made lewd comments about women. Hicks described the impact of the tape on the campaign and Trump’s initial reaction to its release. She portrayed Trump as a family man who may have sought to suppress extramarital scandals to protect his family and marriage.

Hicks also discussed the role of Michael Cohen in handling the scandals and suggested that his actions may have been driven by motives other than loyalty to Trump. Cohen is expected to testify as a key witness for the prosecution in the trial.

Throughout Hicks’ testimony, Trump closely followed the proceedings and at times appeared to be deep in thought. He later clarified on social media that he was listening intently and not falling asleep during the trial. The courtroom was filled with journalists and spectators, including notable figures like Anderson Cooper.

Overall, Hicks’ testimony shed light on the inner workings of the Trump administration and the challenges faced during his presidency. Her emotional response underscored the gravity of the trial, which marks the first criminal proceedings against a former US president.