Former President Donald Trump stated on Friday that he would be willing to testify in his upcoming hush money trial, which is scheduled to commence on Monday. During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump reaffirmed his decision, calling the trial a "scam" and asserting his innocence.

Trump is facing 34 counts of first-degree falsifying business records in the case. Although not obligated to testify in his own criminal trial, the former president expressed his intention to take the stand. By doing so, he would be subjected to cross-examination by the prosecution, potentially addressing various topics, including his alleged relationship with adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

The trial, estimated to last between six to eight weeks, is set to begin with jury selection on Monday. Trump confidently stated his commitment to telling the truth, claiming that there is no viable case against him. However, the trial poses a significant challenge for Trump, as he will have to balance his courtroom appearances with his presidential campaign endeavors.

Notably, Trump's bid to delay the trial due to excessive pretrial publicity was denied by the judge overseeing the case. This decision ensures that the trial will proceed as scheduled, with Trump expected to appear in court every day during its duration.

It is noteworthy that Trump is the first former president to undergo a criminal trial. Amid this legal battle, Trump seized the opportunity to hold a joint press conference with House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., where they announced their support for legislation aimed at preventing non-citizens from voting. However, this practice is already illegal and extremely rare.

As the trial approaches, all eyes will be on the courtroom, awaiting Trump's testimony and the subsequent proceedings. The former president's decision to testify places him at the center of the trial, making it a pivotal moment in his post-presidential legal challenges.