The New York civil fraud trial against Donald Trump, valued at $370 million, took an interesting turn as the presiding judge, Arthur Engoron in Manhattan, barred the former president from delivering his own personal statement during the closing arguments. This development came about due to Trump’s refusal to comply with standard limitations on what he could say.
Engoron’s decision was made clear in a terse email exchange with Trump’s lawyer, Christopher Kise, earlier that day. “I WILL NOT GRANT ANY FURTHER EXTENSIONS,” the judge responded in all capital letters, indicating the finality of his decision.
Donald Trump’s personal statement was scheduled for delivery during the closing arguments tomorrow. However, with the judge’s ruling, the former president will not be allowed to address the court directly.
For more in-depth coverage of the proceedings, visit Bloomberg Law.