Trump’s Fraud Trial Begins, Adding Legal Pressure As 2024 Presidential Campaign Looms

Donald Trump faces a fresh legal challenge as a civil fraud trial against the former president and his two sons, Eric and Don Jr., begins in New York.

The trial beginning today, Monday not only poses a threat to Trump's business empire but also adds to the legal complexities as he considers a 2024 presidential campaign.

Judge Arthur Engoron has ruled that Trump and his sons were involved in fraudulent activities by inflating the value of Trump Organization's real estate and financial assets over several years.

The scheme artificially increased property values by $812 million to $2.2 billion between 2014 and 2021.

Donald Trump has voiced his intention to attend the trial, stating that he is fighting for his name and reputation.

In addition to this civil case, Trump faces several significant criminal proceedings, including charges related to attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, criminal hush money charges in New York, mishandling of classified documents in Florida, and state charges in Georgia related to election interference.

If penalties from the civil case are enforced, it could deal a significant blow to Trump's ability to conduct business in New York.

The revocation of business licenses for some Trump Organization properties has far-reaching implications, potentially leading to a loss of control over flagship properties like Trump Tower on 5th Avenue in Manhattan.

The trial is expected to feature numerous witnesses, including Trump himself, former Trump Organization financial director Allen Weisselberg, Trump's children, and former lawyer Michael Cohen. The proceedings are poised to shed light on Trump's business practices and financial dealings.