In a surprising turn of events, the jury selection for former President Donald Trump's 'hush-money' trial concluded sooner than expected, allowing the trial proceedings to commence on Monday morning. The jury, consisting of 18 individuals, including six alternates, listened to the opening arguments and heard the testimony of the first witness, David Pecker.

Although it can't be said that Trump has a literal jury of his peers, the prosecution aims to present a witness list that includes individuals who can be considered his peers. The trial opened with David Pecker, the publisher of the National Enquirer, shedding light on the tabloid's practice of "checkbook journalism," where sources and stories are allegedly paid for.

Pecker's testimony is expected to delve into the "catch and kill" scheme, which forms the main basis of the trial. It is alleged that Trump, through his attorney Michael Cohen and in collaboration with Pecker's National Enquirer, made hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels and Karen MacDougal to suppress stories of Trump's alleged sexual affairs with them prior to the 2016 presidential election.

Beyond Pecker and Cohen, other individuals on the prosecution's witness list who are considered Trump's associates include former Trump White House aide Hope Hicks, longtime assistant Rhona Graff, Madeleine Westerhout, Director of Oval Office Operations, and staff from the Trump Organization.

Trump's lead attorney, Todd Blanche, opened the trial by requesting that President Trump be addressed as such out of respect, emphasizing that he had "earned" the title. However, it is worth noting that Trump has also earned the title of 'Defendant Donald Trump' multiple times over.

Judge Merchan ruled on Monday that if Trump were to take the stand, prosecutors would be allowed to question him about additional scandals he has been involved in. This ruling further adds to the doubts surrounding whether Trump will testify during the trial.

The trial, which recessed early on Monday for Passover and due to a juror's dental appointment, has just begun. It remains to be seen who will emerge victorious and whether Donald Trump will face criminal conviction for his alleged involvement in the hush-money scheme.