In a dramatic turn of events during the closing arguments of the defamation damages trial against former President Donald Trump, a series of disruptions occurred in the courtroom. Trump arrived late, prompting the judge to remark on his tardiness upon taking the bench. Prior to the jury entering, Trump's legal team sought to present a slide during their presentation, but it was deemed inadmissible by the judge. This decision led Trump's attorney to challenge the ruling, which quickly escalated tensions. The judge firmly asserted his authority, warning the defense lawyers that they were on the verge of being held in contempt.
As the closing arguments commenced with the jury present, the plaintiff's attorney wasted no time in emphasizing the case's central focus: Trump's statements. The lawyer, representing the plaintiff, alleged that Trump not only disregarded the jury's prior verdict but also repeated the defamatory statements within 24 hours. It was at this point that Trump abruptly stood up and exited the courtroom, leaving the judge to formally note his departure for the court record.
Amidst Carol's attorney continuing with her closing arguments, Trump's absence persisted. Although one of his lawyers returned to the courtroom, they were promptly instructed by the judge to be seated and refrain from further interruptions. While it remains unclear where Trump specifically went, it is evident that he remained within the courthouse premises, possibly awaiting his attorneys' turn to present their closing arguments.
Carol's legal team estimated that they would require roughly an hour to conclude their statements, which began with a slight delay. Following their presentation, Trump's attorney, Alina Haba, is expected to take approximately an hour for her closing statement. Once both sides have presented their arguments, the judge will provide instructions to the jury.
Throughout the proceedings, the judge had voiced his desire for an uninterrupted closing argument phase, admonishing all individuals present in the courtroom, including the parties involved, from causing any additional disruptions. However, as events unfolded, it became evident that the morning had been wrought with unexpected turns and tension, deviating from the smooth closing that the judge had envisioned.
As this high-profile trial reaches its culmination, the jury will ultimately weigh the arguments presented and determine whether Trump will be held responsible for his alleged defamatory statements. Carol's legal team is requesting damages exceeding $12 million. Observers eagerly await Trump's potential return to the courtroom during his attorney's closing statements, which could contribute to the trial's already intense atmosphere.
