Analysis: What CNN on-air analysts are saying about Hope Hicks’ testimony thus far
From CNN's Allison Morrow
Hope Hicks, once part of the Trump inner circle, is testifying for the prosecution on the hectic time at his campaign after the "Access Hollywood" tape
was released in October 2016.
Here's what CNN analysts have had to say about her strength as a witness in the case.
"Hope Hicks was the ultimate insider...If and when she says something that's helpful for the prosecution's case, it's going to hit extra hard in favor of the prosecution because you can't say this is a person who has a gripe or a beef with Donald Trump."
"I've actually been skeptical that Hope Hicks makes a lot of sense for the prosecution …Yes, Hope is a consummate Insider. She was very close to Donald Trump, especially in the first campaign. But this is a woman who is not partisan…She is fiercely loyal to Donald Trump even after January 6."
"Hope Hicks seems to be a likable witness … It will be very interesting to see how the defense handles her on cross-examination. A woman who walks into a courtroom and says ‘I’m really nervous to be here’ — I don't know that they want to go after her very harshly. That could backfire."
"This is a very significant witness. She hasn't spoken to him in two years. He's not paying for her attorney. She's there because of a subpoena …This is not somebody the jury's going to say, 'Well, I guess there was $130,000 being paid out that he knew nothing about.' What I'm waiting to hear from her though is, what came after the campaign? Why was there the concern still to pay and cover up or falsify a record? That's the key."