Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) has taken the witness stand as the last defense witness in his criminal trial. “It’s a privilege and a duty” to testify, he told the judge Thursday. In response to the first questions from his attorney Brendan Sullivan, Stevens said that he believed his financial disclosure forms were accurate and that he did not engage in a scheme to conceal gifts that he received, as alleged in the government’s indictment. Stevens is likely to testify until 4:45 p.m., at which point the court will recess for the day. Stevens’ testimony will resume Friday.