Former President Donald Trump faced cross-examination of witnesses in his civil fraud trial in New York. Trump criticized the trial, labeling it as “election interference” and a “weaponization of justice.” The trial, brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, accuses Trump and his business of inflating financial statements and deceiving banks. Trump appeared in court on Thursday and is expected to take the stand for a second time on Monday.
During the trial, defense expert witness Eli Bartov, a New York University accounting professor, testified that he found no evidence of accounting fraud in Trump’s financial statements. Bartov stated that the statements did not violate accounting principles and suggested that any discrepancies were simply errors. Trump praised Bartov’s testimony during a court break, highlighting that the expert witness found no fraud whatsoever.
Trump expressed frustration with the trial, stating that it was a political witch hunt meant to influence an election. He also claimed that the case was a result of the White House controlling district attorneys and called for it to be dismissed. Trump characterized the trial as a “sad day for our country” and criticized the extent of what he deemed as election interference.
While Trump appeared in court, a New York State Appeals Court upheld a decision that paused the dissolution of the Trump Organization until after the trial concludes. This ruling temporarily halted the dissolution of some of Trump’s valuable properties, such as Trump Tower and 40 Wall St. Trump viewed the ruling as a victory for business and claimed that it prevented businesses from moving out of New York.
The trial, overseen by Judge Arthur Engoron, stems from James’ lawsuit against Trump, his family, and his businesses. James accuses Trump of inflating financial statements and deceiving banks. The lawsuit was filed under a consumer protection statute that denies the right to a jury trial, according to a Trump spokesperson. Trump and his family deny any wrongdoing and have maintained that their assets were undervalued. Trump has also emphasized that his financial statements included disclaimers, requesting evaluation by banks.
The trial continues to draw attention, with businesses closely watching the outcome. Trump’s supporters argue that the case is baseless and claim that no wrongdoing occurred. However, critics believe that the trial is necessary to hold Trump accountable for his alleged actions. The trial’s outcome will have significant implications for both Trump’s reputation and the future of his businesses.
This article provides an overview of the ongoing civil fraud trial against former President Donald Trump in New York. It highlights Trump’s criticism of the trial as election interference and a weaponization of justice. The article also includes testimony from a defense expert witness who found no evidence of accounting fraud in Trump’s financial statements. Additionally, it mentions the recent ruling that paused the dissolution of the Trump Organization until after the trial concludes. The article presents perspectives from both Trump and his supporters, as well as critics who argue for accountability. The trial’s outcome will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for Trump and his businesses.
