The latest court developments in the Trump hush money case have been nothing short of explosive. Cohen’s testimony placed Trump at the center of a scheme to win the 2016 election corruptly.

According to Cohen, Trump was fully briefed on the $130,000 payment to Daniels and was in the room when the plan was hatched to conceal the transactions through false invoices to the Trump Organization. Cohen also revealed that Trump's main concern was delaying the story until after the election, allegedly saying, "Just get past the election, because if I win, it will have no relevance, and if I lose, I don't even care."

If true, this testimony provides the clearest evidence yet that Trump was an active participant in the hush money scheme and the subsequent cover-up. Cohen's account suggests it was all about protecting Trump's electoral chances.

In this week's episode, I shine a light on another troubling aspect of the Trump-David Pecker pact at the center of the trial. I note that the pact existed a year and a half before the August 2016 meeting that led to the Hush Money trial, when a catch-and-kill agreement was made between Trump and National Enquirer publisher David Pecker. 

Indeed it seems likely a pact already existed in January 2015 and may have resulted in a disinformation campaign targeting Bill Clinton with untrue stories published in The Enquirer about Clinton and Jeffrey Epstein.

Before Trump launched his 2016 White House bid there’s evidence to suggest Pecker and Trump were coordinating efforts to smear Bill Clinton, Given Pecker's practice of sharing stories with Trump in advance, and his subsequent efforts to "catch and kill" Trump's sex scandals, this raises alarming questions about the level of coordination between Trump and the tabloid.

This week's developments paint a picture of a candidate and a campaign willing to do anything to win—even if it meant breaking the law and deceiving the American people. The hush money scheme, the hints at Clinton dirt, the catch-and-kill operation—it all points to a sophisticated operation designed to manipulate and deceive Americans 

A felony conviction for Donald Trump would be unprecedented in American history, and the jury has had unenviable tasks before them. However, regardless of the outcome, the trial exposed a political network whose entire operational basis is lying, concealing, and cheating. And that is a reality the entire nation must now confront. 

In this sense, the Trump Hush Money trial is not just about campaign finance violations or salacious scandals. It’s about completely rejecting an ideology of moral decline in which the only solution to any national problem is even more corruption. This is an untenable outcome for a nation built on so much hope and promise.

In the latest episode of the Narativ podcast, host Zev Shalev takes a deep dive into former President Donald Trump's ongoing hush money trial. As the trial enters its third week, explosive testimony from critical witnesses Stormy Daniels and Hope Hicks could prove pivotal in determining not only the outcome of the case, but the future of American democracy itself.  Scroll down for more: 

----more----

You can get 20% off a Narativ Substack subscription until Monday, May 13. (This is a great Mother’s Day gift.)

Here’s why it’s important that you support my independent journalism: Since 2016, I have been at the forefront of uncovering the truth, no matter how controversial or challenging the story may be.

Here are some of the exclusive stories on this season of Narativ:

• I revealed the Hunter Biden Scandal and the attempt to impeach Joe Biden was a Russian intelligence operation; months before Alex Smirnov was arrested for making false statements to the FBI.

• I exposed the role Jared Kushner and Mohamed Bin Salman’s negotiation of the Abraham Accords played a role in the October 7 attacks on Israel.

• I revealed Speaker Mike Johnson’s ties to Kremlin insiders with intelligence ties and questioned their influence over the Speaker’s decision to delay aid to Ukraine.

• Eight years of investigating Trump has informed my coverage of the Trump Trials.

• I’ve been joined by phenomenal guests, including Denver Riggleman, Steve Schmidt, Rachel Bitecofer, Tristan Snell, Olga Lautman, and Rick Petree. Each one is an expert in their field.

This dedication to the truth has made me a constant target of suppression efforts and unfounded whisper campaigns to discredit my work. These attacks are designed to limit the number of people exposed to my reports, and by limiting my revenue, they hope I will stop doing my work.

I need more resources to continue my vital work with fewer than 400 paid subscribers and having exhausted my personal funds.

I have refused to compromise my integrity or the quality of my reporting. You deserve nothing less than the unvarnished truth, especially as we approach the critical November elections. That's why I've kept going and want to keep going.

I won't let you down, but I need your help.

As a special offer to my loyal subscribers, I’m offering:

A 20% discount on paid Substack subscriptions until May 4th

(click on the link or enter the code 20OFF when checking out.)

Many of you may also be facing financial challenges, and if that includes you, I’ll donate a free membership for every 100 bought. Just email me and explain your need, and I’ll put you on our list.

Your support, in any form, can make a world of difference. Thank you for standing with me and believing in the power of truth. I am grateful to have you by my side in this fight.

With gratitude,

Z

----more----

Shalev begins by highlighting the importance of this trial, noting that a guilty verdict might be the only thing standing between Trump and a return to the White House in 2024. He argues that despite the salacious details, the core issue is the integrity of the American electoral process.

The episode features revealing excerpts from Daniels' testimony, recreated with AI-generated voices, painting a vivid picture of her alleged affair with Trump. Shalev notes the wealth of specific details in her account, making it difficult to dismiss as fabrication.

Turning to Hope Hicks' testimony, Shalev suggests that her statements may not be as favorable to the prosecution as initially perceived. He points out how Hicks seems to cast doubt on Michael Cohen's reliability while also advancing the questionable "Melania defense" - the idea that Trump was motivated by concern for his wife rather than political self-interest.

Shalev also examines the mounting documentary evidence, including handwritten notes, bank records, and signed checks, corroborating a scheme to conceal the hush money payments. He plays fascinating audio clips of Cohen himself fretting over the unraveling plot.

Shalev previews the defense team's anticipated cross-examination of Daniels and Cohen, who will likely paint them as opportunistic and untrustworthy. The host also ponders the potential political fallout, gaming out the ramifications of a guilty verdict or a deadlocked jury.

In conclusion, Shalev steps back to reflect on what's ultimately at stake - the endurance of American democracy in the face of rising authoritarianism worldwide. Describing his firsthand experience of life under apartheid, he warns listeners of the chilling effect of a police state on creativity and the human spirit.

Shalev encourages his audience to support his work at Narativ with characteristic passion and sincerity at this critical juncture. Arguing that an informed citizenry is the lifeblood of any democracy, he appeals for the resources to continue delivering groundbreaking independent journalism.

Please stay tuned for more updates as this historic trial unfolds, and visit narrative.substack.com to help Narrative pursue its vital mission. The future of the America

In a chilling exposé, political strategist Rachel Bitecofer and journalist Zev Shalev discuss the harrowing future that may await America if Donald Trump is re-elected in 2024. Drawing from Trump's own words in a recent Time Magazine article, they paint a dystopian picture of a nation on the brink of autocracy.

According to Trump's plans, upon taking office, he intends to:

1. Purge the government of liberals and replace them with conservative loyalists

2. Round up and jail journalists critical of his administration

3. Deploy the National Guard or even the military to deport 11 million undocumented immigrants

4. Weaponize the Department of Justice to prosecute political opponents

5. Drastically expand presidential powers under a "unitary executive theory"

6. Undermine Congressional authority over budgets and legislation

Bitecofer warns that despite Trump's seemingly mild demeanor in his current legal battles, Americans should not be lulled into complacency. She argues that civic illiteracy and a lack of awareness among voters pose the greatest threats to democracy.

To combat this, Bitecofer suggests Democrats adopt a laser-focused messaging strategy, emphasizing the existential threat Republicans pose to personal freedoms. She urges citizens to spread the word about Trump's autocratic intentions, as most Americans remain unaware of the full scope of his plans.

The consequences of a Trump victory, Bitecofer cautions, would be catastrophic not just for America, but for the entire world. With less than 190 days until the election, she issues an urgent call to action: It's time to get real about the danger we face and fight to preserve our democracy before it's too late.

This episode of Narativ delves into the unfolding criminal case against Donald Trump, highlighting detailed allegations of his long-standing relationship with David Pecker and the National Enquirer's involvement in silencing stories that could damage Trump’s image and career. It covers the mechanics behind 'catch and kill' tactics used to suppress potentially harmful stories, spanning a 40-year history of scandal manipulation. The episode also touches on the personal toll on individuals targeted by such media manipulations, with insights from Steve Schmidt about overcoming orchestrated public smears. Additionally, the episode critiques the media's role and journalism's ethics in the context of political manipulation. It ends with a commentary on the broader implications of Trump's legal and ethical entanglements for democracy.

 

I had a profound conversation with Steve Schmidt, the founder of “The Warning” and a seasoned veteran of numerous high-profile campaigns. We delve into the intricacies of Donald Trump's hush money trial and its potential impact on the 2024 presidential race.

Our wide-ranging conversation covers Steve's invaluable assessment of Trump's electoral chances, the pivotal role of the MAGA propaganda ecosystem, and the pressing challenges facing Joe Biden. Steve's analysis of who will win in November and the hush money trial is a must-listen. He also shares advice for Joe Biden on making a compelling case for his leadership.

I got to know Steve during the 2008 election, and I deeply respect his political acumen and unwavering, steadfast commitment to democratic principles. He also discusses standing up for our freedoms, drawing inspiration from Pope John Paul II's courageous calls to "be not afraid."

No matter your political persuasion, Steve's trenchant analysis is essential listening for anyone who cares about our country's future. I hope you'll check out the full interview. If you haven’t already done so, please subscribe to Steve’s substack, “The Warning.”

Subscribed

A SPECIAL OFFER EXCLUSIVELY FOR NARATIV VIEWERS AND FOLLOWERS  

If you're looking for a way to enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home without the hassle or expense, I highly recommend checking out CookUnity.

As a special offer for Narativ’s viewers and listeners, you can get 50% off your first week by going to cookunity.com/REACH or entering code “REACH” at checkout. With locally sourced ingredients, chef-crafted dishes, and a commitment to sustainability, CookUnity is changing the game regarding meal delivery.

Whether you're a busy professional, a foodie looking to explore new cuisines or just someone who wants to eat well without sacrificing taste or quality, CookUnity has something for you. So why not see how delicious and convenient meal delivery can be?

Introduction

- Tonight's episode delves into the current turmoil surrounding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

- We explore the internal divisions within his war cabinet, the public's growing dissent, and the Israeli army's retreat amid threats of an offensive.

The Gaza Retreat

- The sudden withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Gaza has raised questions about the shift in the conflict's dynamics.

- Families return to their devastated homes in Gaza, facing the overwhelming task of rebuilding.

The World Central Kitchen Incident

- The killing of 7 aid workers by the IDF has sparked significant controversy and backlash against Netanyahu.

- The IDF's public apology marked a turning point, leading to a humanitarian aid influx and hostage negotiations.

Netanyahu's Controversial Leadership

- Netanyahu's long tenure as Prime Minister and his complex relationship with global powers, including Russia and China, are scrutinized.

- His interactions with the Chabad movement and the prophecy of being the last Prime Minister before the Messiah are discussed.

Guest Appearance

- Rick Petrie, a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and an energy sector expert, joins the conversation to provide insight into the broader implications of the conflict.

Summary

- The episode examines Netanyahu's actions and the delayed military response to the Hamas attack, the government's dysfunction, and the potential shift in global power dynamics if Netanyahu maintains control.

Conclusion

- The stakes are high not only for Israelis and Gazans but for the global order of human rights, emphasizing the need for an end to the conflict.

Support

- Listeners are invited to support the programming by subscribing on Substack or Patreon.

In today's episode, we dive deep into the unfolding political scenario of 2024 and dissect its potential consequences for the democracy of the United States. We examine how unfavorable election outcomes could endanger the democracy and transform the United States into a different reality. Despite having exposed the enemies of democracy for years, the outcome of the upcoming elections seems distressingly predictable.

Emerging poll results show Donald Trump leading in four swing states, presenting a potential electoral college lead over Joe Biden. Altogether, there is a growing sense of foreboding that is difficult to avoid. Still, the game isn't over, and the tides may yet turn as public attention increasingly focuses on the election in the coming summer.

We also explore the impending media circus centered around Trump and the trials he faces. Instead of focusing on pressing issues like the potential rise of religious zealots in the public sector, impending bans on abortions and birth control, or the increasing surveillance on LGBTQ communities, the public might become hypnotized by seemingly insignificant events. This hybrid of an election campaign and made-for-TV spectacle is a worrying development for democracy.

Furthermore, we delve into Trump's financial connections to China, claiming that his new social media platform, Truth Social, represents a multi-billion dollar deal with China. We caution listeners to stay alert to the efforts by media and influential figures to distract from the real issues at stake and urge them to discuss the importance of democracy actively.

Despite the distractions, we fervently encourage you to spread the word about democracy and its impending peril. Please share this podcast with your friends and family, particularly those residing in swing states, to alert them to the reality of the war against democracy. Ultimately, we must seize the narrative and keep the focus on the true issues at hand.

In this in-depth episode of the Narativ, we take a deep dive into how Vladimir Putin, Russia's dominating president, influences not just his own country but democracies across the globe. Starting with an analysis of Putin's recent, and questionable, win in the Russian presidential election, we light up the variations from democratic norms.

Using the resurgence of Paul Manafort in the United States Republic Party as an example, we discuss the frightening reality of potential foreign influence, thus revealing the unsettling truth about Russia's interference in global politics. We don't spare any details, from sinister (and planned) infiltrations to the unabashed spread of disinformation.

We also assess how Putin is trying, and succeeding, to destabilise democratic institutions worldwide and the harmful repercussions of his unchecked influence. As we traverse this uncertain path, we urge our listeners to stay vigilant and protect democracy.

Join us for this compelling discussion with special guest, Olga Lautmann, a senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis. Discover the entwined relationship between the American political environment and Russian intelligence networks. Understand how key figures have approached Russian intelligence for personal gains, and explore the alarming rise in divisive political discourse and disinformation campaigns.

Woven into this gripping narrative is a delightful partnership with Cookunity, bringing your favourite local restaurant flavours right to your home. Stay informed, stay equipped, and avail this unique opportunity to comprehend the complexities and realities of global politics.

In the concluding part of the episode, we mull over geopolitical issues and discuss possible global conflicts and wars. The discussion leads towards the urgent need for citizens to comprehend the gravity of the current scenario and use their voting rights to prevent a slide into authoritarian rule.

Gain a fresh, well-rounded perspective on the global political landscape through this educative and enlightening episode.

Exploring the GOP's deep-rooted ties to Russia, shedding light on the looming peril to America's democratic system. This episode unpacks the disturbing realities looming post the Super Tuesday. As the 2024 elections loom, a stark reality is painted: a battle between a Russian party and an American party, with Donald Trump as the potential GOP nominee, a figure marred in allegations of criminality and fraud.

Throughout this episode, we unravel how the GOP crisis may morph into a disaster by election time, further jeopardizing American democracy, with an alleged alliance forged with Russia and China aimed to dismantle the American system.

We spotlight the heart of this present crisis, revolving around House Speaker Mike Johnson's continual blocking of crucial military aid to war-torn Ukraine. We disclose astonishing findings from an investigation into Mike Johnson's ties to Putin, revealing a decades-long pattern of supporting Russia's key policies.

Furthermore, we delve into Mike Johnson's legislation, his alleged anti-LGBTQ advocacy, and his inexplicable alignment with Russian social policies. On a broader scale, we expose the evident Russian influence within the GOP. In this precarious scenario, the GOP's Speaker and President appear beholden to Russia, raising serious questions about national security.

With a critical investigation into political ties and troubling legislation, this episode paints a haunting picture of what the future might hold should these unchecked Russian influences play a role in the imminent 2024 elections.

In my latest podcast episode, I had former Congressman Denver Riggleman on to discuss the ongoing threats of Russian interference in the 2024 presidential election. Some key takeaways:

• Alexander Smirnov, a Russian intelligence asset, was the main source behind false allegations about Hunter Biden taking bribes. This shows how Russian disinformation can infiltrate partisan investigations.

• An FBI whistleblower has claimed confidential informants were used to spread disinformation about the Bidens to the Trump administration. This illustrates problems with the FBI's handling of foreign interference cases.

• Speaker Mike Johnson has disturbing connections to Putin's inner circle. His refusal to provide military aid to Ukraine raises questions about whether he is acting in America's interests.

• The Hunter Biden laptop story shows patterns of Russian interference across the 2016, 2020, and now 2024 elections that Republicans like Jim Jordan fail to acknowledge.

• Polling shows Trump retains an extremely loyal base that is unlikely to fracture before 2024. Issues like abortion rights could potentially swing some Republican women to Biden.

• A Trump re-election in 2024 raises concerns about retaliation, political violence, chaos, and damage to democracy. October surprises internationally could also impact the outcome.

I discuss all of these issues and more with Denver Riggleman, who brings expertise from serving on the January 6th Committee. With Russian threats increasing as we approach 2024, it's an important episode to understand the forces that still endanger American democracy. Please have a listen!

This episode of the Narativ podcast focuses on the breaking news that Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny has been murdered, presumably by Vladimir Putin. Navalny's widow, Yuliya Navalnaya, spoke at the Munich Security Conference shortly after his death, calling for Putin and his regime to face justice.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Yuliya Navalnaya's emotional speech at the Munich Security Conference, saying Putin should be punished for Navalny's murder
• Putin's obsession with interfering in US politics to get Trump elected again in 2024
• How the timing of Navalny's murder was meant to send a message to NATO right before the Munich Conference
• Putin lying about supporting Biden for president as more disinformation
• Analysis of how GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson's actions align with Putin's interests regarding Ukraine aid
• Discussion of how the enemies of democracy like Putin seem to be coordinating to weaken American power
• A look ahead at how conflict hotspots like Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel could impact the 2024 election

Guest:

Rick Petrie from the Council on Foreign Relations provides expert analysis on geopolitics and Vladimir Putin's motives.

Key Quotes:

"It's further proof that this is a very hard dictatorial regime...They have taken the opportunity to murder someone who is probably the most effective opposition spokesperson and revealer of Putin's nepotism and corruption in a generation."

"Ukraine has been the bellwether for Trump and his fealty towards Putin...And he's still very desperate to deliver on that. And it's very dangerous for us as a country, for NATO as an alliance, and for Western democracy."

Conclusion:

This sobering episode focused on Putin's tyranny domestically and in trying to influence world affairs. The murder of Navalny represents a significant escalation and assault on voices of dissent and democracy advocates in Russia. The discussion highlights why opposing Putin's aggression must be a top priority as America heads into the 2024 election.