NEW YORK (AP) – Donald Trump, renowned for his roles as a football owner, casino developer, and airline buyer, is now entering the courtroom as a witness in a civil fraud trial. This trial holds personal significance for the former president, as it directly impacts his reputation as a successful businessman and could potentially result in the loss of prominent properties like Trump Tower. Following the testimonies of his sons, Eric and Donald Jr., Trump’s highly anticipated appearance in the trial conducted by New York Attorney General Letitia James is set to take place this Monday. Trump’s eldest daughter, Ivanka, will also testify on Wednesday.
Throughout his career, Trump has been involved in numerous legal disputes and trials. He has testified in court proceedings at least eight times since 1986 and has been subjected to over a dozen depositions and regulatory hearings. His previous testimonies provide insights into the demeanor and approach he is likely to adopt during his upcoming appearance in Manhattan. There are striking parallels between Trump as a witness and as a political figure. He has demonstrated a rhetorical style characterized by a mix of ego, charm, defensiveness, aggression, sharp language, and deflection. While being confrontational and boastful, he has sometimes been vague and dismissive.
One notable example of Trump’s testimony was his appearance in the USFL’s antitrust lawsuit against the NFL in 1986. He vehemently denied allegations of spying on NFL officials, categorizing them as “such a false interpretation it’s disgusting.” In another instance, during his attempt to purchase Eastern Air Lines’ Northeast shuttle service, Trump showcased his charisma, captivating the judge’s female law clerks with his wide smile and engaging in friendly banter during a break in his testimony.
Trump’s testimonies have highlighted his tendency to engage in speechmaking, deflections, and off-topic arguments. Consequently, lawyers preparing to question him should craft precise queries supported by relevant documents to ensure minimal scope for evasive responses. Trump’s style of testimony in court resonates with his approach during campaign rallies and televised appearances.
While Trump’s legal battles have been preceded by public statements that violated gag orders, his recent testimony marked his first courtroom appearance since 2013. Although Trump has attended seven days of the New York trial, intently observing witnesses from the defense table, he has not held back in expressing his disdain for the case, the judge, and state lawyers in front of TV cameras. On social media, he has expressed excitement about the trial’s “Perry Mason” moments, reminiscent of the classic TV courtroom drama.
Trump’s current trial revolves around allegations that he and other Trump Organization executives inflated the value of his properties and misrepresented his wealth in annual financial statements submitted to institutions for loans and insurance. New York Attorney General Letitia James alleges that these fraudulent practices allowed Trump to secure more favorable interest rates and insurance deals. Trump, however, denies any wrongdoing and claims banks suffered no harm and have no complaints.
The trial, which has been ongoing for over a month, involves accusations of conspiracy, insurance fraud, and falsifying business records. James seeks $250 million in penalties and a ban on the defendants conducting business in New York. Although the judge ruled the financial statements fraudulent before the trial, an appeals court has temporarily halted the decision to transfer control of Trump’s companies to a court-appointed receiver.
When questioned about his business dealings in the past, Trump has deflected responsibility and shifted blame onto others. For instance, in a 2013 deposition concerning a failed Florida condominium project, he attributed erroneous paperwork to an employee, emphasizing that he had delegated the task. As he navigates the current trial, Trump’s past testimonies could serve as indicators of his future responses and behavior in the courtroom.
