Gambiaj.com – (NEW YORK) – Former President Trump is facing a significant legal challenge this week as his trial in New York City over an alleged hush money scheme is set to begin on Monday. The trial, which comes after efforts to delay its start date, charges Trump with 34 counts of falsifying business records related to reimbursements to his then-fixer, Michael Cohen, who paid adult film actress Stormy Daniels $130,000 just before the 2016 election to stay quiet about an alleged affair with Trump.

Despite the trial, Trump’s campaign is planning to use virtual appearances, in-person campaign stops on weekends, and media attention on the proceedings to sustain enthusiasm among supporters. Trump has denied wrongdoing, framing the case as a partisan hit job led by Democratic District Attorney Alvin Bragg, calling it “election interference at its best.”

While Trump’s campaign downplays the threat to his White House bid, there are signs that the trial could spell trouble, especially if he’s found guilty. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 64% of voters view the hush money charges as “somewhat serious,” with 50% believing Trump is guilty and 36% predicting a conviction would reduce support for him.

The trial also gives the White House and Biden campaigns a chance to draw a contrast, with President Biden free to hit the road as Trump is tied up in court. Biden is traveling to Pennsylvania this week, focusing on policy issues like tax reform, while highlighting Trump’s legal troubles.