Former U.S. President Donald Trump is set to take the stand in a civil defamation trial brought against him by E. Jean Carroll, who has accused him of sexual abuse. The trial, taking place at the Manhattan federal courthouse, has already found Trump liable for defaming Carroll. The focus of the current trial is to determine the extent of damages Trump will be required to pay.
Carroll's team is expected to present their final witness, her former editor at L magazine, who will testify on her behalf. Additionally, clips of a videotape deposition given by Trump will be introduced as evidence. In his deposition, Trump has repeatedly denied Carroll's claims and confused her with his second wife, Marla Maples. Trump has maintained that he does not know Carroll and that she is not his type.
The jury, who have only heard two days of testimony thus far, will be presented with this evidence before Carroll's team rests their case. The pivotal question remains whether Trump will take the stand himself. While he has expressed a desire to testify, the judge has stipulated that his testimony must be limited to the issue of damages and harm. He will not be permitted to deny the allegations of sexual abuse or accuse Carroll of lying.
Trump's testimony in previous trials has been characterized by his tendency to deviate from the specific questions asked, often turning it into a campaign-like rhetoric. This has led to clashes with the judge, who threatened to remove him from the courtroom in this particular trial due to his disruptive behavior.
While a decision on whether Trump will testify is yet to be announced, the potential tension in the courtroom is palpable. With a jury present, it is crucial that the proceedings remain focused on the facts pertinent to the case. Caroll is seeking over $10 million in damages, while Trump's team argues that any harm she suffered was not directly caused by his statements.
This trial marks a pivotal moment in Trump's legal battles, as he attempts to defend himself while simultaneously utilizing the case to bolster his presidential campaign strategy. The outcome of this trial will not only determine the financial implications for Trump but also shape public perception of the allegations against him.
