Donald Trump’s appearance on the witness stand in a Manhattan state court on Monday was marked by moments of raw emotion and defiance. The former president, facing a civil fraud case brought by the New York attorney-general, vehemently denied inflating his net worth to secure loans and economic benefits. The case, which has already concluded that he engaged in such practices, aims to determine the penalties he and his adult sons will face.
Throughout his testimony, Trump displayed a level of sensitivity and defensiveness that seemed to contrast his larger-than-life public persona. He took issue with being labeled a “fraud” and accused those who questioned him of demeaning his accomplishments.
Trump’s decision to testify in this case, despite potential legal risks and upcoming criminal trials, has raised eyebrows among legal experts. Some suggest that his combative behavior might be aimed at bolstering his image, particularly with his political base.
His testimony on the witness stand was characterized by a barrage of words, circular speeches, and digressive statements, frustrating the judge and leading to a stern warning for his lawyer to control him. The judge, Arthur Engoron, admonished Trump’s lawyer, Christopher Kise, to rein in his client, making it clear that the court proceedings were not a political rally.
For Kevin Wallace, a lawyer for the attorney-general, questioning Trump felt like trying to control a thunderstorm. Many of his questions sought straightforward answers about property values listed in Trump’s financial documents, but Trump responded with the confidence of a New York real estate developer, often diverting from the specifics.
Trump dismissed claims that he inflated his wealth to meet loan covenants, emphasizing that banks primarily care about cash. He also expressed support for his former CFO, Allen Weisselberg, who faced legal issues related to the Trump Organization’s financial dealings.
Amid the back-and-forth, Trump did make one concession, acknowledging an overvaluation of his penthouse apartment. He argued that the value of his brand, which was not included in the financial statements, significantly increased his true net worth.
As the exchanges during his testimony shifted from confrontational to less hostile, Trump’s frustration remained evident. He accused the attorney-general of pursuing a political agenda, even as he maintained that his lenders had been repaid in full and on time, labeling the case “a disgrace.”
Trump’s appearance in this civil fraud case not only highlights his legal battles but also serves as a unique campaign stop in his ongoing quest to return to the White House. The case represents an opportunity for him to defend his reputation for business success, which has been integral to his political career.
Donald Trump’s appearance on the witness stand in a Manhattan state court on Monday was marked by moments of raw emotion and defiance. The former president, facing a civil fraud case brought by the New York attorney-general, vehemently denied inflating his net worth to secure loans and economic benefits. The case, which has already concluded that he engaged in such practices, aims to determine the penalties he and his adult sons will face.
Throughout his testimony, Trump displayed a level of sensitivity and defensiveness that seemed to contrast his larger-than-life public persona. He took issue with being labeled a “fraud” and accused those who questioned him of demeaning his accomplishments.
Trump’s decision to testify in this case, despite potential legal risks and upcoming criminal trials, has raised eyebrows among legal experts. Some suggest that his combative behavior might be aimed at bolstering his image, particularly with his political base.
His testimony on the witness stand was characterized by a barrage of words, circular speeches, and digressive statements, frustrating the judge and leading to a stern warning for his lawyer to control him. The judge, Arthur Engoron, admonished Trump’s lawyer, Christopher Kise, to rein in his client, making it clear that the court proceedings were not a political rally.
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For Kevin Wallace, a lawyer for the attorney-general, questioning Trump felt like trying to control a thunderstorm. Many of his questions sought straightforward answers about property values listed in Trump’s financial documents, but Trump responded with the confidence of a New York real estate developer, often diverting from the specifics.
Trump dismissed claims that he inflated his wealth to meet loan covenants, emphasizing that banks primarily care about cash. He also expressed support for his former CFO, Allen Weisselberg, who faced legal issues related to the Trump Organization’s financial dealings.
Amid the back-and-forth, Trump did make one concession, acknowledging an overvaluation of his penthouse apartment. He argued that the value of his brand, which was not included in the financial statements, significantly increased his true net worth.
As the exchanges during his testimony shifted from confrontational to less hostile, Trump’s frustration remained evident. He accused the attorney-general of pursuing a political agenda, even as he maintained that his lenders had been repaid in full and on time, labeling the case “a disgrace.”
Trump’s appearance in this civil fraud case not only highlights his legal battles but also serves as a unique campaign stop in his ongoing quest to return to the White House. The case represents an opportunity for him to defend his reputation for business success, which has been integral to his political career.
