Donald Trump and his family-owned businesses are set to appear in a New York court today, Monday, in a fraud case that could deliver a significant blow to the former U.S. president's real estate empire. New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, has accused Trump of inflating the value of his assets by billions of dollars to secure loans and better insurance terms. Trump is currently leading the race for the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential election. A court document revealed that Trump intends to attend the first week of the trial, which will take place in Manhattan state court.
James seeks to impose at least $250 million in fines against Trump and a permanent ban preventing Trump and his sons, Donald Jr. and Eric, from managing businesses in New York, along with a five-year ban on Trump and his organization’s commercial and real estate activities. Trump has previously claimed that the case is part of a politically motivated witch hunt.
The trial involves a handful of entities among nearly 500 in Trump's business and investment portfolio, yet it includes some of his highest-valued properties. The trial is expected to continue until early December. More than 150 individuals are slated to testify, including Trump himself, but the bulk of the trial will likely revolve around a battle between document and financial transaction experts.
This case is one among many lawsuits and trials facing Trump as he seeks to return to the White House next year. None of these cases have hindered his lead over Republican rivals for the nomination, but they have proven to be financially draining for him.
