They claimed Trump falsified business records as part of a criminal conspiracy to hide the payment.

In his opening statement, Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo described the case as "election fraud, pure and simple." Trump, dressed in a blue suit, sat quietly at the defense table during the proceedings.

A criminal case in Manhattan poses risks for the Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump, who is set to face Democratic President Joe Biden in November elections.

Prosecutors plan to call Daniels and Trump's former fixer, Michael Cohen, as witnesses in the case regarding an alleged payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

Trump's attorney, Todd Blanche, argued in his opening statement that Trump did not commit any crimes and that attempting to influence elections is a part of democracy.

The first witness called by prosecutors was David Pecker, former publisher of the National Enquirer tabloid, who allegedly helped bury negative stories about Trump through a practice known as "catch and kill." The trial against Donald Trump for falsifying business records related to a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels began in New York with Michael Cohen, Trump's former lawyer, testifying.

Trump, who insists he did nothing wrong, called the case a "Biden witch hunt" to keep him off the campaign trail.

The trial is expected to last six-to-eight weeks, with Trump attending court four days a week.

Trump's attorney, Alina Habba, questioned the credibility of Cohen and Daniels, both of whom have criminal records.

A man named Daniels stated that Stormy Daniels, involved in a scandal with former President Trump in 2018, made significant money from the situation, totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Trump is currently facing indictments for conspiring to overturn the 2020 election results and hoarding secret documents after leaving the White House.

These cases have been delayed due to Trump's legal challenges.

In contrast, the New York trial, presided over by Judge Merchan, has been run on a tight schedule.

Trump has criticized the case and the partial gag order imposed by Merchan, which prevents him from attacking witnesses, prosecutors, and court staff publicly.

A hearing is scheduled for Tuesday to determine if Trump is already in contempt of court due to outbursts during jury selection.

Twelve jurors and six alternates have been selected for Donald Trump's impeachment trial, with their identities kept secret for their safety.

Potential jurors were questioned about media habits, political donations, and education, resulting in many being excused for lack of impartiality.

A unanimous verdict is required to convict Trump, who must attend each day of the trial.

Security was increased at the courthouse following a man setting himself on fire outside last week.