Michael Cohen and Donald Trump’s Complex Relationship: A New Chapter?

Michael Cohen discussed his relationship with former President Donald Trump during a CNN interview before Trump appeared on Cohen’s New York radio program, 77 WABC. The two had a roughly 15-minute conversation that covered topics such as the 2016 election, Iran, polling data, and gasoline prices. Cohen referred to Trump as “boss,” illustrating a possible thawing of their strained relationship.

On CNN with anchor Jake Tapper, Cohen noted that his connection with Trump is “being resuscitated.” He emphasized his desire to avoid revisiting “yesterday’s news” and expressed his belief in mutual forgiveness between him and Trump. Newsweek reached out to the White House for comments after Cohen’s television appearance.

Cohen’s Pardon Pursuit

When asked by Tapper if he had sought a pardon from Trump, Cohen denied it. He mentioned submitting a pardon application to President Joe Biden, which was unsuccessful. Rather than starting anew, Cohen chose to update his existing application, replacing Biden’s name with Trump’s. He stated that he has not yet received an acknowledgment of the submission and plans to follow up.

Legal analyst Elie Honig observed on CNN that Cohen’s actions represent a unique social experiment, noting the support Cohen had received from liberal figures in his initial application. As Cohen resubmits to Trump, Honig questioned whether those same supporters will continue to back him.

Trump and Cohen’s Historical Friendship

Trump and Cohen’s relationship dates back to 2006, when Cohen joined the Trump Organization, becoming one of Trump’s closest advisors. Described as Trump’s personal lawyer and “fixer,” Cohen was a staunch defender during the 2016 presidential campaign. However, by 2018, their relationship soured amid investigations into Cohen’s business activities and campaign-related financial matters.

After pleading guilty in 2018 to charges including tax fraud, Cohen became a vocal critic of Trump and a crucial prosecution witness. Trump’s public attacks on Cohen, along with questioning Cohen’s credibility, marked a low point in their relationship. In 2024, a Manhattan jury found Trump guilty of falsifying business records.

In 2022, Cohen claimed prosecutors from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and New York Attorney General’s Office pressured him for testimony that would incriminate Trump. Trump’s remarks during the radio preview, where he said he respected Cohen’s “recanting,” reflect a notable shift.

Renewed Relations?

Their latest interaction signifies a significant change. During this public exchange, Cohen described burying the hatchet with Trump and characterized their renewed relationship as “cordial and growing.” Although Trump has not shared a detailed personal account, the conversation on Cohen’s show may further clarify their current rapport.

Cohen’s complete interview with Trump will air on his Sunday program, When You Know You Know, at 5 p.m. ET on the same channel.