New York Attorney General Letitia James has positioned former President Donald Trump as the defendant in a case, contending that his net worth was artificially inflated by billions of dollars in financial statements. These alleged embellishments were purportedly instrumental in securing business loans and insurance, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Trump’s intention to address the court during the closing arguments was communicated by his attorney to Judge Arthur Engoron earlier this week. The judge reportedly sanctioned this plan, as confirmed by individuals who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity due to a lack of authorization to disclose the information.
Despite the Trump campaign and a spokesperson for James declining to provide comments, the former president, now a prominent Republican front-runner, steadfastly denies any wrongdoing. He has consistently criticized the case through various channels, including social media, verbal comments within the courthouse, and on his Truth Social platform, where he dismissed the proceedings as a “hoax” and a “pathetic excuse for a trial,” while also targeting the judge and attorney general, both Democrats.
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While Trump has altered his plans concerning the trial in the past, including canceling scheduled testimony in December, the upcoming closing arguments present a distinct challenge. It is uncommon for defendants with legal representation to personally deliver summations, and Trump, not being a lawyer himself, has a legal team at his disposal.
In the closing arguments, each side presents its interpretation of the evidence and arguments for why they should prevail. This crucial stage serves as the final opportunity for persuasion before Judge Engoron, who holds the decisive role in this legal battle. The case, led by James’ office, alleges that Trump, along with his business and top executives, engaged in fraudulent practices by inflating asset values, affecting banks and insurers adversely. The state contends that this manipulation resulted in favorable rates for Trump while denying lenders and insurers the necessary information for accurate risk assessments and pricing.
