On Thursday, September 14, 2023, USA Today reported that in a last-ditch effort to derail a civil trial that could potentially gut Donald Trump’s business empire, attorneys for the former president have filed a legal complaint against a New York judge. The complaint alleges that Justice Arthur F. Engoron failed to follow previous rulings that narrowed the allegations at the heart of the trial, which is scheduled to begin on October 2.
The move is seen as a rare and aggressive tactic, particularly given the proximity to the trial date. According to The Daily Beast, it’s a highly unusual move that suggests Trump’s legal team is pulling out all the stops in an attempt to avoid a potentially damaging outcome. The case in question was brought by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, who sued Trump and members of his family a year ago, accusing them of enriching themselves through financial fraud. If successful, the case could effectively shut down The Trump Organization.
Trump has denied any wrongdoing and has accused James of making frivolous legal motions in pre-trial maneuvering. In response, James has asked the state Supreme Court to sanction the former president and others involved in the family business. The legal battle comes as Trump prepares to run for president again in 2024. He has claimed that James and others are playing politics and targeting him for political gain.
Despite the legal challenges, Trump’s business empire has continued to operate, with his children, Donald Jr. and Eric, taking on more prominent roles. The Trump Organization has also continued to expand its portfolio, with recent deals in the Middle East and Asia. The upcoming trial is just one of several legal challenges facing Trump. He also faces up to six other criminal and civil trials, including a defamation lawsuit brought by a former Apprentice contestant and a lawsuit alleging that he violated the Constitution by profiting from his position as president.
As the legal battles play out, Trump’s campaign for the presidency is also heating up. He has been holding rallies and events across the country, and recent polls suggest that he remains a formidable force in the Republican Party.
While the outcome of the New York trial is far from certain, it’s clear that Trump’s legal team will leave no stone unturned in their efforts to protect his business empire. The trial is set to begin on October 2, and the outcome could have significant implications for Trump’s future, both in business and in politics.
Source: USA Today
