In a non-jury civil trial, former President Donald Trump was denied the opportunity to deliver his own closing arguments on Thursday. The trial, which stems from a lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Letitia James, has been a highly contentious affair. Trump, who is also the frontrunner for the 2024 GOP nomination, took the opportunity to defend himself, asserting that he “did nothing wrong” and that his financial statements were “perfect.” He also criticized the case as “election interference.”
The closing arguments in the trial began on Thursday morning, with Trump’s attorney, Chris Kise, requesting permission for Trump to speak. However, the presiding judge, Arthur Engoron, denied the request. Despite the judge’s decision, Trump proceeded to deliver his own remarks. During his speech, Trump emphasized that his bank loans had been repaid and were in good standing. He admitted to an “error” regarding one property but argued that it was an “honest mistake” that was quickly rectified.
Trump’s attempt to make his case was met with opposition from Judge Engoron, who asked him to wrap up his remarks within one minute. Trump, however, pushed back, questioning the judge’s ability to listen for more than a minute. The exchange grew tense, with the judge instructing Trump’s attorney to control his client. Engoron also reminded Trump that he had been sued before, to which Trump acknowledged.
Despite the setbacks, Trump maintained his innocence and criticized the lawsuit as an attempt to gain publicity. Following his speech, Trump left the court and held a press conference at his property on 40 Wall St. in Manhattan. During the press conference, he referred to Attorney General Letitia James as a “political hack” and expressed his skepticism about the case’s outcome.
Trump’s defense of his business empire and his assertion that the lawsuit lacked evidence and facts reflect his ongoing battle against what he perceives as an unfair targeting by political opponents. The trial remains ongoing, and updates will be provided as the story develops.
Brooke Singman, a political correspondent and reporter for Digital, Channel, and FOX Business, has been closely following the trial. Subscribers can expect to receive the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews, and other political content.
