Former White House aide Madeleine Westerhout testified about Donald Trump’s social media posting habits during his Manhattan hush money trial. She described his preference for capitalizing certain words like “country” and his use of an Oxford comma. Westerhout revealed that Trump would dictate tweets to her, which she would then draft, print out, and have him review. Trump, known for his attention to detail, would often make edits and specific requests for changes to his posts.
Westerhout also shared insights into Trump’s work style, noting that he did not use a computer or email and instead worked off hard copies of documents. Despite his office being inside the Oval Office, he preferred to work in the dining room. She described Trump as a boss who paid attention to details and had specific preferences, such as signing documents himself with a Sharpie or felt-tip pen. She spoke positively about her time working for Trump, saying he was supportive and made her feel valued, especially in a male-dominated office.
Westerhout tearfully recounted resigning from her position after sharing information about the Trump family with the press, describing it as a youthful indiscretion. She expressed regret and claimed personal growth since leaving her post in 2019. The trial, which had already seen testimony from Stormy Daniels, who alleged a one-night stand with Trump, is set to resume with Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer, expected to testify. Cohen, a key witness for the prosecution, previously testified against Trump at a civil fraud trial.
Daniels testified that her encounter with Trump was brief and in the missionary position. Trump’s lawyers attempted to call for a mistrial due to Daniels’ salacious testimony potentially prejudicing the jury, but the judge allowed her testimony to establish credibility. The judge criticized Trump’s legal team for not objecting when Daniels mentioned details like the absence of a condom during their alleged encounter. Trump has denied the charges in this case, as well as in three other criminal cases he is facing, stating that they are part of a political effort to prevent his re-election.
The trial revealed details about Trump’s social media habits and work style, painting a picture of a president who was hands-on with his online presence and preferred hard copies of documents over digital formats. Westerhout’s testimony highlighted Trump’s attention to detail and specific preferences in communication. The trial is expected to continue with more key witnesses, including Trump’s former lawyer, offering testimony in support of the prosecution’s case. Despite the twists and turns of the trial, Trump remains steadfast in denying the allegations against him and framing them as politically motivated attacks.