In a surprising turn of events, former U.S. President Donald Trump has been restricted from personally presenting his closing argument in the ongoing civil fraud trial in New York. The decision, handed down by Judge Arthur Engoron, stems from Trump’s legal team’s reluctance to agree to conditions preventing the ex-president from transforming the courtroom into a political platform.
Set against the backdrop of accusations by New York’s attorney general, who alleges Trump manipulated his net worth to secure favorable loan terms, the trial has been marked by legal maneuvers and political undertones.
Judge Engoron, in an email chain disclosed on the court’s docket, offered Trump the opportunity to speak but under strict guidelines. The conditions prohibit Trump from delivering what the judge referred to as a “campaign speech” and prevent him from disparaging the court, the attorneys, or anyone involved in the case.
“He may not deliver a campaign speech, and he may not impugn myself, my staff, plaintiff, plaintiff’s staff, or the New York State Court System, none of which is relevant to this case,” clarified Engoron.
The judge emphasized that Trump’s absolute right to speak during closing arguments under New York law is not absolute, given that his attorneys can speak on his behalf.
Despite the looming conclusion of the trial, Trump’s legal team did not meet Engoron’s specified conditions within the extended deadline, drawing a sardonic response from Trump’s lawyer, Alina Habba, who remarked, “Is anyone surprised anymore?”
New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, is seeking a substantial $370 million from Trump and his entities. Following a fraud finding against Trump in September, the trial now revolves around determining the financial repercussions he should face.
This legal battle is just one among several legal challenges Trump faces as he gears up to challenge President Joe Biden in the November 2024 election. However, these legal woes have not significantly impacted his lead over his political rivals.
Trump has consistently decried the trial’s interference with his campaign activities, using voluntary court appearances to address the media with fiery statements. He maintains his innocence, labeling the case as a politically motivated witch hunt and accusing both James and Engoron of bias.
The lawsuit revolves around allegations that Trump consistently inflated the values of his assets, from towers to golf clubs, before entering politics. In defense, Trump’s legal team argues that property valuations are subjective, and any alleged inaccuracies did not harm the banks, as they profited from the loans.
As Trump faces the conclusion of this trial, he also braces for four potential criminal trials this year, each adding to the legal complexities of his post-presidential life.
