Gag Order Lifted on Trump in Civil Fraud Trial

A US appeals court judge, Associate Justice David Friedman, has temporarily lifted the gag order imposed on former President Donald Trump in his ongoing civil fraud trial in New York. The order, originally placed by Judge Arthur Engoron, aimed to prevent Trump from making statements about court staff due to security concerns.

Engoron extended the order to include Trump’s attorneys. The former President was fined $15,000 for violating the order after posting a baseless allegation on social media. Trump’s lawyers sought emergency relief, arguing the gag order infringed on his right to free speech.

The civil fraud case, brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, alleges that the Trump Organization deceived lenders, insurers, and tax authorities by inflating property values. Despite the lifting of the gag order, the trial continues to be a focal point, impacting Trump’s real estate empire and seeking $250 million in damages.