Judge Scolds Trump for Rambling Testimony in Fraud Trial
Former president Donald Trump faced a scolding from the judge presiding over his civil fraud trial as he began testifying in a lawsuit accusing him of inflating his net worth. Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engeron admonished Trump to keep his answers concise, reminding him and the courtroom that this is not a political rally. The judge expressed frustration with the length and repetitiveness of Trump’s responses, urging his lawyer to control his client.
The trial, which focuses on allegations that Trump inflated his property values and deceived banks and insurers, presents a unique convergence of Trump’s legal troubles and his political aspirations. While it offers him the chance to use the witness stand as a campaign platform, the under-oath format and the presence of a judge who has previously fined him for incendiary comments outside of court pose risks for the former president known for his freewheeling rhetorical style.
Engeron’s tensions with Trump were evident throughout the proceedings, as he scolded the former president about the content and length of his answers. At one point, Engeron instructed Trump’s lawyer, Christopher Kise, to control his client, highlighting that the courtroom is not a political rally.
Trump downplayed his direct involvement in preparing and assessing financial statements that the New York state attorney general claims were fraudulent. He suggested that his role was limited to authorizing and providing necessary information to accountants, while downplaying the statements’ significance. Trump also argued that the 2014 financial statements, which are central to the lawsuit, should not be subject to litigation due to the statute of limitations.
The courtroom, located at 60 Center St., has become a familiar setting for Trump, who has attended the trial and observed the proceedings for several hours. Trump had already taken the stand briefly in the past after being accused of violating a partial gag order. The judge fined him for this violation, despite Trump’s denial.
Trump’s upcoming criminal cases, which involve different charges including misclassifying hush money payments and attempting to overturn the 2020 election results, pose even greater threats to his financial and personal freedom. These cases could potentially lead to the termination of his company and his loss of freedom.
The trial marks a critical moment for Trump as he simultaneously faces legal battles and attempts to secure another presidential run in 2024. The case not only challenges the former president’s business brand but also offers a platform for him to defend himself politically. However, the strict and formal nature of the courtroom, coupled with the judge’s admonishments, may hinder Trump’s ability to use the trial as a promotional opportunity.
Whether this trial will have a lasting impact on Trump’s political future remains to be seen. For now, the courtroom serves as a battleground where his legal and political ambitions intersect, and where he must navigate the challenges imposed by the judicial process.
