Clash of Titans: Closing Arguments Conclude in Trump-Carroll Defamation Trial
Carroll’s Lawyer Rebuts Defense’s Argument
Shawn Crowley, representing E. Jean Carroll, presented a powerful rebuttal to the defense’s closing argument. He asserted that Trump’s repeated denial of Carroll’s assault allegations constituted defamation. Crowley highlighted that the defense had misstated facts and presented a distorted narrative, while Trump himself had repeatedly lied under oath. He emphasized that the burden of proof lay with the defense, which they had failed to meet.
Habba and Judge Clash Over Free Speech
Lina Habba, Trump’s lawyer, engaged in a heated exchange with Judge Lewis A. Kaplan over the issue of free speech. Habba maintained that individuals have the unrestricted right to express their opinions, even if they are false or defamatory. However, Judge Kaplan clarified that certain types of speech, such as defamation, are not protected under the First Amendment. He stressed that Trump’s statements about Carroll were not merely opinions but rather statements of fact that could be proven true or false.
Trump Lawyer Concludes Closing Arguments for Defense
Habba concluded her closing arguments by emphasizing that Trump, as a prominent public figure, is subject to intense scrutiny and criticism. She argued that the trial was a politically motivated hoax orchestrated by Carroll and her legal team. Habba alleged that the defense was prevented from presenting evidence that could have exonerated Trump, such as testimony from witnesses who could have corroborated his account of events. She urged the jury to dismiss Carroll’s claims and vindicate Trump’s reputation.
Trump Posts on Truth Social During Closing Arguments
As the closing arguments unfolded, Trump took to his Truth Social account to share articles critical of Carroll and attack Judge Kaplan. He asserted that Kaplan’s personal biases against him had compromised the fairness of the trial. Trump’s social media posts drew widespread attention and sparked discussions about the propriety of his conduct during the legal proceedings.
Judge Cautions Trump’s Lawyer Against Quarreling
When Habba continued to suggest that Carroll fabricated the assault allegations for personal gain, Judge Kaplan intervened, stating that the fact of the assault had already been established. He warned Habba against challenging the court’s rulings and reminded her that further violations of his orders would result in consequences.
Defense Shifts Blame to Social Media Users
In an attempt to distance Trump from responsibility for the harmful messages and threats directed at Carroll on social media, Habba argued that Trump had no control over the actions of individual users. She claimed that the tweets and messages were posted before Trump made his initial statement denying the assault allegations. Habba maintained that Trump could not be held liable for the actions of others.
Judge Objects to Habba’s Denial of Assault and Insults
Judge Kaplan raised strong objections to Habba’s closing arguments when she denied the assault and made derogatory remarks about Carroll. He warned Habba that further violations of his orders could result in sanctions, including contempt of court. The judge emphasized that the trial was about determining the facts of the case, not about engaging in personal attacks or making baseless accusations.
Defense Presents Closing Argument
Habba commenced the defense’s closing argument by outlining their position on the case. She asserted that Trump’s statements about Carroll were protected by the First Amendment and that Carroll had failed to provide sufficient evidence to support her defamation claim. Habba argued that the jury should reject Carroll’s allegations and find in favor of Trump.
Court Recesses Before Defense’s Closing Arguments
The court took a brief recess before the defense presented their closing arguments. This recess allowed both parties to regroup and prepare for the final phase of the trial.
Carroll’s Lawyer Justifies Proposed Damages
Carroll’s lawyer, Roberta Kaplan, presented an argument for damages based on Trump’s own claims about the value of his properties, including Mar-a-Lago. She argued that Trump’s wealth and status should be taken into account when determining the appropriate level of damages. The defense objected to this line of argument, citing the lack of evidence to support the specific figures proposed by Carroll’s lawyers.
Trump’s Lawyer Objects to Proposed Damages
Habba objected to the damages proposed by Carroll’s lawyers, arguing that they were excessive and not supported by the evidence presented at trial. She maintained that Trump should not be held liable for the full amount of damages sought by Carroll.
Carroll’s Lawyer Accuses Trump of Disregarding Rules
In her closing argument, Kaplan portrayed Trump as a liar who believes he is above the law. She emphasized that Carroll’s account of the assault was truthful and that Trump’s denials were fabrications. Kaplan asserted that Trump’s wealth and power should not exempt him from consequences for his actions.
Conclusion: Awaiting the Verdict
As the closing arguments concluded, the jury retired to deliberate on the verdict. The outcome of the trial has significant implications for both Trump and Carroll, as well as for the broader issues of defamation law and free speech. The verdict is expected to be reached in the coming days or weeks, and it will undoubtedly be met with intense scrutiny and analysis.