Donald Trump takes the stand in New York’s civil fraud trial

Judge Tells Trump to Answer Questions Related to the Case

Judge Engoron Requests Focused Answers

Judge Arthur Engoron has instructed Donald Trump to provide direct answers to the questions related to the case, emphasizing the need to avoid giving speeches or unrelated responses. Engoron expressed his concern about some of Trump’s previous answers not being in line with the questions asked.

“Some of your answers have not been in response to the question,” Engoron said.

The judge also acknowledged the patience of Kevin Wallace, representing the New York attorney general’s office, and urged Trump to expedite the proceedings.

Engoron’s Relationship with Trump

The relationship between Judge Engoron and Donald Trump has been contentious from the beginning. Engoron had already made a significant ruling before the trial even began, stating that Trump had committed fraud. Additionally, Engoron issued a gag order against Trump after the former president verbally attacked a courtroom clerk on social media. As a result of breaking the order, Trump was fined $15,000.

Trump Criticizes the Judge

However, during the proceedings, when Trump was questioned about his responsibility for preparing financial statements, he once again targeted the judge.

“I’m sure the judge will rule against me because he always rules against me,” Trump claimed, while also complaining about the statute of limitations in the case.

Judge Engoron questioned Trump’s attorney, Chris Kise, about the necessity of Trump’s comment in relation to answering the question. Engoron emphasized that Trump’s remark about the judge’s tendencies did not address the question at hand.

“The comment that I always rule against him, which as you know is not true anyway, certainly didn’t answer the question,” Engoron stated.

Finally, the judge directly addressed Trump, urging him to answer the question without diverting the focus of the proceedings.

“So Mr. Trump, please just answer the question,” Engoron firmly stated. “You can attack me, you can do whatever you want, but answer the question.”

Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-11-06 15:51:00