Trump Escalates Attacks on NY Attorney General Letitia James, Judge arthur Engoron Following Civil Fraud Ruling
NEW YORK – Former President Donald Trump intensified his verbal attacks on New York Attorney General Letitia James and Judge Arthur Engoron on Monday, following Friday’s ruling in the civil fraud case brought against him and the Trump Organization. Trump labeled James a “radical left lunatic” and Engoron a “highly politicized, biased, and dangerous” judge in a series of posts on his social media platform, Truth Social, and in statements released by his campaign. The escalating rhetoric comes after Judge Engoron found Trump liable for fraudulently inflating the value of his assets to secure more favorable loan terms and insurance rates, imposing a $355 million penalty and restricting Trump’s ability to conduct business in New York.
The renewed broadside represents the latest chapter in Trump’s ongoing efforts to discredit the legal proceedings against him, which he consistently characterizes as a politically motivated “witch hunt.” The case, brought by Attorney General James, alleged a decade-long scheme to deceive banks, insurers, and others.The ruling has critically important implications for Trump’s financial future and business empire, potentially impacting his ability to secure loans and operate properties in New York. The penalties could also affect his standing with potential investors and partners.
“This is a continuation of a pattern of behavior from the former president,” noted legal analyst Elie Honig on CNN Monday.”He routinely attacks judges and prosecutors when rulings don’t go his way, attempting to delegitimize the legal process.”
Trump’s posts included claims that James “campaigned on ‘getting Trump'” and that Engoron’s rulings were “a complete and total disgrace.” He also reiterated his assertion that his properties are worth far more than the valuations presented in court, claiming the judge “doesn’t know anything about real estate.”
Judge Engoron issued a gag order in the case last year, limiting what Trump could publicly say about court staff, but the order does not extend to the judge or the Attorney General themselves.
Attorney General James responded to Trump’s attacks with a statement released through a spokesperson: “These baseless attacks are a desperate attempt to distract from the overwhelming evidence of fraud that was presented in court. We will continue to enforce the law and hold those who engage in fraudulent behavior accountable.”
Trump has vowed to appeal the ruling, setting the stage for a prolonged legal battle. The case is being closely watched by legal experts and observers, as it could set precedents for future fraud cases and raise questions about the limits of presidential accountability. The new York attorney General’s office has indicated it will vigorously defend the ruling on appeal.
