In a recent turn of events, Former President Trump seems to have successfully dominated the news cycle on the back of his civil fraud trial, even as his chances of winning the case seem slim. Those who had initially believed that Trump had no intention of addressing the court directly were taken by surprise when he did just that, much to the dismay of his legal team. The incident was reported extensively by Above the Law.
Chris Kise, one of Trump’s attorneys, and a former Solicitor General of Florida, had been petitioning Justice Arthur Engoron for a week for his client to be permitted to give part of his own closing argument. However, when Kise refused to guarantee that Trump would limit his topics to only relevant and factual issues, the request was denied. In response, Trump claimed to be the victim of suppression.
Amidst the legal proceedings, Trump and his legal team have attempted to turn the tables on the press cycle. As reported by Lisa Rubin on Twitter, Trump launched a verbal tirade against what he perceives as a ‘political witch hunt’.
As further reported by Daily Beast, Trump began to rant about electoral interference, and how he was being targeted simply because of his political stature.
While his performance might have made headlines in the news cycle, it remains to be seen whether this will have any substantial effect on the actual trial proceedings. As it stands, the former president is still facing a possible significant fine and the potential dismantling of his business empire.
As for his ill-timed outburst in the court, it is estimated to be nothing more than a minor noting of his lack of remorse in the judge’s final order. However, one thing is certain: by occupying the news cycle, Trump may have won the battle in the court of public opinion, even as his chances of a legal victory continue to dwindle.