Disagreements over legal strategy were not the only reason why Donald Trump’s defense team collapsed just days before his second impeachment trial, Axios found out.
What we’re hearing: The notoriously petty ex-president and his chief lawyer, Butch Bowers, discussed compensation during a series of tense phone calls, sources familiar with the talks said. The argument came even though Trump raised more than $ 170 million from the public that could be used in his legal defenses.
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The two initially agreed that Bowers would receive $ 250,000 for his individual services, a figure that “delighted” Trump, one of the sources said.
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However, Trump did not realize that Bowers did not include additional expenses – including more lawyers, researchers and other legal fees that would accrue on the job.
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He was furious when Bowers came back to him with a total budget of $ 3 million. Trump called the South Carolina attorney and finally negotiated with him for $ 1 million.
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All of this infuriated Trump and his political team, who think the case will be straightforward, considering that 45 Republican senators have already voted to reject the trial based on the unconstitutionality of convicting a former president for impeachment.
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Trump’s political arm also planned to pay separately for audiovisuals, a quick response team and legislative contact.
Ultimately, the dispute for money has increased frustrations Bowers and the other lawyers wondered whether the former president’s allegations of electoral fraud should be the center of their arguments.
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“I think there were some problems with getting money, but it wasn’t [just] that, “said Senator Lindsey Graham (RS.C.), who helped Trump protect Bowers and other impeachment lawyers.” Just too many cooks in the kitchen. “
What they are saying: “These guys are no longer relevant. We have our lawyers, we have a solid team and we are looking to the future,” said Jason Miller, Trump’s senior consultant, to Axios.
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Originally published