Full Breakdown
Trump Says Cohen Recanted Testimony; Cohen Insists It Remains Truthful
9/7/2026, 6:34:09 AM
Core Event
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday that his former attorney Michael Cohen “just fully RECANTED his testimony” in the New York hush-money trial and called the alleged reversal “an act of bravery.” Cohen, the star witness whose courtroom statements helped secure Trump’s conviction, publicly rejected the claim, saying his testimony was still “truthful and accurate.”
Background & Context
The hush-money case stemmed from a $130,000 payment arranged by Cohen to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Prosecutors argued the payment was concealed through falsified business records, leading Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg to charge former President Trump with 34 felony counts of falsifying those records. Trump was convicted on May 30, 2024 on all counts, becoming the first U.S. president convicted of a felony. Cohen, after pleading guilty to related federal crimes, testified that he arranged the payment and was reimbursed by Trump, a testimony that was central to the prosecution’s case.
Official Statements & Responses
President Trump asserted that Cohen’s alleged recantation proved the case was “politically weaponized” and urged immediate dismissal.
U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein rejected a recent effort to move the case to federal court, writing that discussions about hush-money payments could not be considered official presidential acts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I respect the fact that you recanted everything you said,” — Mr. Trump, president
- “His Act of Bravery is a Great Credit to the Justice System in New York City and State,” — President Trump
- “There is no way that discussions regarding hush money payments to cover up the President's relations with Stormy Daniels could be an official act,” — Alvin Hellerstein, district judge
What’s Next
Trump’s legal team has filed a notice of appeal following Judge Hellerstein’s ruling, while the conviction remains in force. Cohen has reportedly sought a presidential pardon, a request that would require Trump’s cooperation. The appeal process and any potential pardon will determine whether the conviction can be altered, but as of now the court’s decisions keep the 34 felony convictions intact.
