NY AG Letitia James Trump’s biggest worry (not Jack Smith, Fani Willis, or Alvin Bragg)
NY AG Letitia James Trump's biggest worry (not Jack Smith, Fani Willis, or Alvin Bragg)
Trump’s Biggest Worry: A Civil Fraud Trial That Could End His New York Empire
Donald Trump, the former president of the United States, has been making headlines for his legal troubles. From criminal indictments to ongoing investigations, his law-enforcement pursuers have become almost household names. However, there is one person he may be most concerned about right now – New York Attorney General Letitia James, or “Tish.”
In just three months, James will be pursuing a $250 million civil fraud trial against the Trump Organization. If successful, this trial could result in the permanent revocation of the organization’s license to operate in New York. Not only that, but Trump and his children, Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric, could also be banned from ever running a business anywhere in the state. This would be a major blow to Trump’s identity as a New York real estate mogul.
For an individual who grew up fantasizing about Manhattan and believed it to be the center of the world, losing his empire in the city would be a significant blow to Trump’s sense of self. According to Michael D’Antonio, author of “The Truth About Trump,” New York has always been central to Trump’s self-image. This trial could be the first time he faces real punishment that truly matters to him.
While Trump has already been indicted in both Manhattan and Florida on various charges, including hush-money document fraud and classified documents case, those criminal cases may offer him paths to avoid jail time. A potential presidential win in 2024 by any Republican candidate, except for former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, could result in a federal pardon for Trump. This would make the existing criminal cases against him disappear.
Alternatively, judges have significant discretion in sentencing, and they can deviate from statutory guidelines. In Trump’s case, a judge could determine that his unique position and the fact that he has already faced a prosecution and conviction may be adequate punishment without the need for a prison sentence. Home confinement is also a potential option, considering the potential for civil unrest and logistical challenges associated with imprisoning a former president with a Secret Service contingent.
- Best Gold IRAs of July 2023
- Sri Lanka asks Japan to invest again
- US increases wind power, achieves record oil production ANBLE Econo...
However, the civil trial led by Letitia James is a different matter. Although it doesn’t carry the possibility of physical imprisonment, it poses significant financial and reputational risks to Trump and the Trump Organization. James alleges that Trump committed massive fraud over a decade, manipulating financial statements to obtain loans and tax savings. If she succeeds, the Trump Organization could potentially relocate, but an independent monitor would follow them for five years, overseeing their financial dealings.
The most severe penalty sought by James is a five-year ban on Trump, his family, or his company from acquiring any new real estate in New York. This would force Trump to abandon his New York business address, severing his ties to the city that has always been synonymous with his success. Losing the prestige and reputation of being a New York businessman would be a major blow to Trump’s ego.
Gwen Blair, the author of “The Trumps: Three Generations That Built an Empire,” believes that Trump’s rise to prominence was fueled by his image as New York’s biggest and flashiest real estate mogul. The reality TV show “The Apprentice” further solidified this image, with New York City as its co-star. If James wins her case, Trump’s narrative will shift, potentially painting himself as having saved New York and being unappreciated.
However, speculation remains about whether New York still holds the same significance for Trump. Growing up in Queens, New York was once the biggest thing in his universe. But now, he may believe that New York is not big enough for him anymore. Regardless, losing his New York real estate empire would undoubtedly be a significant setback for Trump, even if he tries to brush it off with a late-night chocolate shake and a cheeseburger.
In the end, the civil fraud trial led by Letitia James may pose the greatest threat to Donald Trump and his Trump Organization. Losing his empire in New York could have lasting financial and emotional consequences for a man whose identity has always been intertwined with the city. Whether it’s the loss of prestige or the hit to his self-image, the trial’s outcome will undoubtedly shape the next chapter of Trump’s story.
