Here’s what you need to know…
On Saturday, former GOP congressman David Jolly expressed concerns that ex-President Donald Trump is approaching a point where he could jeopardize his own freedom due to his relentless attacks on court personnel during his New York civil fraud trial. New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a $250 million lawsuit against Trump and his family, alleging a pattern of inflating Trump’s net worth and asset values from 2011 to 2021. Trump and his family deny the charges, claiming political motivation and an effort to undermine his potential 2024 presidential campaign.
Judge Arthur Engoron, presiding over the case, recently ruled that Trump, his adult sons, their businesses, and executives committed fraud, making them civilly liable, with further determinations to be made as the trial progresses. The court will also address additional allegations, including falsifying business records, insurance fraud, and conspiracy claims. Trump’s legal team opted against a jury trial, leaving Engoron to make the final rulings. Possible consequences may include the loss of notable properties and a prohibition from conducting business in New York.
During the trial, a gag order restrained Trump from making comments about court staff, though an appeals court temporarily halted this order on November 16, citing constitutional concerns. Subsequently, Trump posted a Thanksgiving message on Truth Social, criticizing individuals involved in the case and escalating threats against them. Reports revealed a significant increase in threats against Judge Engoron and his staff following Trump’s posts.
On MSNBC, Jolly, now a political analyst, discussed Trump’s ongoing efforts to disparage those connected to the civil fraud trial. Jolly, an outspoken Trump opponent who left the Republican Party, noted Trump’s unhinged message and suggested that the former president might be edging closer to facing consequences for his actions, either through pretrial behavior or a potential conviction.
Jolly also speculated that Trump’s outbursts could negatively impact his standing in the public eye and potentially benefit President Joe Biden’s chances of reelection, countering recent polls indicating Trump’s lead. According to Jolly, Trump’s erratic behavior serves as a reminder to voters of his instability, potentially safeguarding Biden’s lead in any future electoral contest.