In an explosive courtroom showdown that has set tongues wagging, Alina Habba, the legal counsel for former President Donald Trump, blasted New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron, accusing him of “unhinged conduct” and “childish antics.” This dramatic clash unfolded amid the ongoing legal battle between Trump and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
“I was told to sit down today,” Habba fumed. “I was yelled at and I had a judge who is unhinged slamming a table. I don’t tolerate that in my life. I’m not going to tolerate it here!” Her fierce critique of the judge’s demeanor came after a tumultuous court session that saw tempers flare on both sides.
Habba also took aim at James, whom she accused of trying to intimidate Trump. “She said she and Michael Cohen were going to be his biggest nightmare. Well, I have some news for Ms. James: Michael Cohen folded, lied, and crumbled! They’ve got nothing!” Habba declared defiantly.
The fiery confrontation was sparked by a heated exchange between Trump and Justice Engoron. The former president blasted the attorney general’s office for what he described as a politically motivated lawsuit that amounted to “election interference.” Trump’s ire was particularly piqued by the low valuation of his Mar-a-Lago resort, which he insists has been significantly undervalued in the lawsuit.
“This is about more than just this courtroom, America. This is about your rights, too,” Habba passionately proclaimed. The situation escalated when Trump veered away from directly answering the prosecution’s questions, prompting Justice Engoron to demand straightforward answers. This in turn triggered Trump to challenge his statute of limitations and the judge’s valuation assessments.
Trump let loose a barrage of criticism, both inside and outside the courtroom. “This is really election interference,” Trump railed. “This is fairly ridiculous. The numbers are much greater than on the financial statement. And we’ve already proven that. They said Mar-a-Lago is worth $18 million.”
Habba has previously characterized the legal proceedings as a frivolous waste of taxpayer state funds. “We are now over a month deep into the biggest waste of New York taxpayer dollars I’ve ever seen,” Habba declared. The Trump team maintains that not only is the family’s business legacy at stake, but also the potential political future of the former president.