Former President Donald Trump is facing a significant legal setback after a New York judge ordered him and his companies to pay nearly $355 million in damages for allegedly engaging in a years-long scheme to inflate the value of his properties. The judge ruled that Trump and his two adult sons misled banks by presenting false information regarding the worth of their assets. If interest accrues, the total amount owed could swell to $450 million.
Addressing the ruling, Trump has vowed to appeal, expressing his belief that the trial was fast-tracked and prompted by political biases. He criticized Judge Gorin and others involved in the case, leading to a gag order and fines for violating it. Trump has insinuated that the legal proceedings are a targeted attack on him and his business dealings, noting his displeasure with the judgment against him.