For Trump’s Former Fixer, a Tortured Path From ‘Rat’ to Reconciliation
NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-09-06 18:14:00 — www.nytimes.com
Donald Trump Promotes False Claim About Michael Cohen Recanting Testimony
In a recent radio conversation, Donald Trump asserted that Michael Cohen, his former personal lawyer, had recanted his previous testimony against him—a claim that is demonstrably false. Trump told Cohen, “You took it back. I wouldn’t even be talking to you right now if you didn’t, to be honest.” This statement directly contradicts the public record and Cohen’s own consistent assertions.
Trump’s insistence on this narrative appears to be a strategic move, making clear that any reconciliation with Cohen was contingent on Cohen disavowing his sworn statements. The excerpt shows Trump “focused on promoting the fiction that Mr. Cohen had recanted his testimony,” despite no evidence supporting this claim.
Cohen, who has described the personal and professional devastation he experienced after breaking with Trump, has not withdrawn or altered his testimony. Instead, the record shows that Cohen has repeatedly stood by his statements, even as he has faced intense public scrutiny and legal consequences.
Trump’s repeated promotion of this falsehood is part of a broader pattern of misstatements and distortions aimed at undermining the credibility of those who testify against him. By insisting that Cohen “took it back,” Trump not only misrepresents the facts but also attempts to rewrite the narrative for his own benefit.
This episode highlights Trump’s ongoing efforts to blur the line between fact and fiction, particularly when it comes to legal challenges and public accountability. As the legal and political battles continue, Trump’s willingness to promote demonstrably false claims remains a central feature of his public posture.
In summary, Trump’s statement about Cohen recanting his testimony is not supported by any factual evidence and stands as another example of his pattern of making false claims to serve his interests. Readers should be aware of the persistent use of such tactics as the former president seeks to shape public perception and defend himself against mounting legal scrutiny.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/06/us/politics/michael-cohen-donald-trump-interview.html