Disgraced Former Attorney Michael Avenatti Criticizes New York Hush Money Case Against Trump as "Stale"

In a surprising interview from prison, Michael Avenatti, the once-prominent attorney who rose to liberal media stardom before his dramatic fall, expressed his views on the New York hush money case against former President Trump. Speaking on the phone from Terminal Island Prison in California, Avenatti told MSNBC host Ari Melber that he believed the case was "stale" and the wrong approach at this time.

Avenatti argued that the case focused on events that took place eight years ago, questioning the relevance of prosecuting such conduct in state court. He also raised concerns about potentially depriving millions of Americans of their choice in the presidency, regardless of their views on Trump. Avenatti expressed his belief that the case against Trump would likely lead to his conviction, but he expressed doubts about the fairness of a trial held in New York.

Refusing to confirm any contact with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, Avenatti suggested that bringing Stormy Daniels and Michael Cohen as primary witnesses would be a mistake. He referred to Cohen as a "serial liar" and emphasized the potential complications of relying on his testimony.

Despite his previous statements advocating Trump's indictment and campaign finance charges against him, Avenatti stood firm in his opinion that the case had not improved with time. He asserted that the legal basis of the case was weak, specifically regarding the alleged attempt to cover up a federal election crime. He expressed concerns regarding a potential appeal based on this legally tenuous theory.

When asked about undisclosed details he had previously mentioned, Avenatti stated that he was unsure if they would be revealed during the trial. He also acknowledged that some of the information he had learned from representing Stormy Daniels turned out to be untrue, causing him to end his representation of her in February 2019. Avenatti referred to false information regarding her alleged attempt to extort Trump during his presidential campaign in 2016.

Historically known for his televised appearances on various news networks, Avenatti faced legal consequences for his actions. In 2022, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison for defrauding former clients and obstructing the IRS. Prior to this, he was already serving a five-year sentence for embezzling money from Stormy Daniels and attempting to extort Nike for a large sum.

As the New York hush money case against Trump continues to unfold, Avenatti's perspective adds another layer of criticism and doubt. With his own legal troubles, his words may carry less weight, but they still raise questions about the strength and fairness of the case.