Closing arguments are underway in the civil fraud trial against former President Donald Trump, a trial that has stretched on for nearly 11 weeks. As the fate of his business empire hangs in the balance, Trump's legal team is fighting to minimize the potential damages, which could amount to a staggering $370 million. The trial has already found Trump liable for defrauding the government of millions of dollars, but these additional counts and potential damages have the potential to further impact his reputation and finances.
During the closing arguments, Trump's lawyer, Chris Kyes, argued that his client is an industry expert with nearly 50 years of experience in commercial real estate. However, the judge, Arthur Ngorin, intervened and corrected Kyes, stating that Trump had not been qualified as an expert witness in this trial. While it may seem like a mere technicality, this distinction holds significant weight for Trump, as it challenges his self-proclaimed status as a titan of the industry.
The trial's personal nature for Trump cannot be understated. It goes beyond his professional reputation and expertise, but strikes at the core of his self-identity. Trump has always presented himself as a master in the world of business and real estate, and any challenges to this image likely rattle him profoundly.
Nevertheless, the judge's decision to interrupt Kyes' closing arguments indicates a strict adherence to legal protocols. Experts must undergo a specific process to be qualified as witnesses, and without such qualification, their testimony or assertions cannot be considered as expert opinions. While Trump's team may feel aggrieved by the judge's intervention, it is a technicality tied to legal procedure rather than a personal attack on Trump's capabilities.
As the clock ticks, Trump's legal team has until 12:45 pm to conclude their closing arguments. There is anticipation whether they will attempt to have Trump speak himself, despite the judge's previous ruling that it is not allowable under the current agreement. The potential inclusion of Trump's personal testimony would undoubtedly add a dramatic flair to the courtroom proceedings, but it remains to be seen if his legal team will attempt to circumvent the judge's decision.
In the end, the outcome of this trial will have far-reaching consequences for Trump's business empire and financial future. The jury's decision, based on the evidence presented during this lengthy trial, will determine the extent of damages, if any, that Trump will be required to pay. As the closing arguments come to a conclusion, the world waits with bated breath to see how this high-stakes legal battle will unfold.
