Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of former President Donald Trump, testified in the State Supreme Court on Wednesday as part of a high-profile $250 million fraud case involving the Trump Organization. During his testimony, he distanced himself from the financial statements at the center of the case and provided insights into his role within the Trump Organization.
Amid questioning, the 45-year-old Trump heir frequently responded with “I don’t recall” and admitted to having limited knowledge of general accounting practices, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Trump Jr. emphasized that he relied on professionals, specifically Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), whose expertise was instrumental in managing the organization’s finances. He clarified that he entrusted these professionals to make financial assessments and decisions.
In addition, he denied any direct involvement in the 2017 Trump Organization accounts that prosecutors have alleged to be fraudulent. This case is a significant legal battle initiated by the New York State Attorney General, with the prosecution seeking a $250 million fine and potential sanctions that could affect the Trump family’s business operations in the state.
Donald Trump Jr. also detailed his early involvement with the Trump Organization, beginning shortly after the September 11, 2001 attacks. He was engaged in various projects, including the development of properties such as Trump Park Avenue and the Trump International Hotel in Chicago. As an executive vice president, he reported to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Allen Weisselberg, on some matters while enjoying autonomy on others.
The departure of Allen Weisselberg from the Trump Organization became a topic of discussion during the testimony. Trump Jr. explained that Weisselberg’s indictment was the primary reason for his exit from the organization. However, he stated that he did not possess precise details regarding the circumstances of Weisselberg’s departure, including whether he was asked to leave or resigned voluntarily.
This trial has far-reaching implications, and its outcome could significantly affect the Trump family’s business interests in New York. Following Donald Trump Jr.’s testimony, his brother Eric Trump is scheduled to testify, with former President Donald Trump himself expected to take the stand on Monday. Ivanka Trump, initially a party to the lawsuit, has been dismissed from the case due to statute of limitations constraints but is still slated to testify in the ongoing proceedings.
NEW VIDEO: Donald Trump Jr. inside a New York City courtroom. He took the witness stand in the $250 million civil fraud trial against his father and their company. Eric Trump, Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump himself are expected to testify. pic.twitter.com/ltuB9qimnx
— MSNBC (@MSNBC) November 1, 2023
