Trump civil fraud trial live updates: Closing arguments begin today in New York
NBCDec 30, 2023
Trump Speaks at NY Civil Trial After Judge Faces Bomb Threat
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The Facts
Donald Trump called himself “an innocent man” on Thursday when granted permission to speak by Judge Arthur Engoron during closing arguments in New York Attorney General Letitia James’ civil fraud suit against the former US president, his family, and their business.
Although Engoron refused Trump’s request to speak during the closing arguments on Wednesday, the judge acquiesced to a request from Chris Kise, a lawyer for Trump.
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
The least Engoron could do was let Trump, who has done nothing wrong, speak at his own trial. Otherwise, Trump has been denied most of his rights, including the opportunity to postpone the proceedings while he mourns the death of his mother-in-law. It’s obvious this is James’ contribution to the Democratic witch hunt that seeks to derail Trump’s reelection to the White House.
Anti-Trump narrative
Engoron knew what was going to happen if he granted Trump the right to speak in court, and the former president acted accordingly. Instead of showing remorse or presenting a factual argument to defend himself, Trump used the opportunity to deliver his rehearsed list of grievances and his oft-repeated accusations of a witch hunt. He made it easy for Engoron to throw the book at him.
