First witness takes the stand in Manhattan court [Video]

Former President Trump’s historic trial in Manhattan heard its first witness called by the district attorney’s office on Monday, former publisher David Pecker.

Pecker previously served as chairman of the National Enquirer’s parent company, American Media Inc., and allegedly was a key figure in a “catch and kill” scheme ahead of the 2016 election.

Pecker, 72, took the stand early Monday afternoon ahead of the trial concluding for the day at 12:30. He spoke to the court about American Media Inc. and its various publications, as well as his personal background and how he owned 10% of American Media when he served as CEO.

The court broke out into chuckles when the prosecution team asked Pecker to provide the last four digits of his phone numbers, with Pecker rattling off four different sets of contact numbers. Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass responded “sorry this isn’t a quiz,” sparking laughter from Pecker and others in the …