Trump Cautioned Against Using Campaign Funds to Settle E. Jean Carroll’s Payment
(Evan Vucci/AP)
During a detailed discussion on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” this Monday, Dave Aronberg, the State Attorney for Palm Beach County, issued a stark warning to Donald Trump regarding the potential legal repercussions he could face should he attempt to mislead his supporters into contributing towards the $83.3 million he is mandated to pay E. Jean Carroll.
Aronberg, engaging in conversation with co-host Mika Brzezinski, expressed skepticism about Trump’s ability to evade the defamation damages awarded to the New York writer. He raised concerns that Trump might seek to inappropriately redirect funds from his political campaign to cover the substantial financial obligation, thereby avoiding the need to pay from his wealth.
Aronberg further highlighted the precarious financial situation Trump finds himself in, pointing to an impending financial judgment from Judge Arthur Engoron related to allegations of financial fraud. This judgment, which is yet to be finalized, could significantly compound Trump’s financial liabilities, with New York Attorney General Letitia James having proposed a penalty of $370 million against the former president.
In his conversation with Brzezinski, Aronberg elaborated on the mechanisms of the legal process, noting that Trump would be required to secure a bond as a prerequisite for appealing the judgment within a 30-day window. This requirement, Aronberg suggested, ensures that Carroll will eventually receive the compensation awarded to her.
Aronberg stressed the importance of transparency in fundraising efforts, warning that any attempt by Trump to solicit funds under pretenses, such as disguising them as campaign donations only to redirect them towards settling his debt to Carroll, would constitute a criminal act.
He underscored the inevitability of Carroll receiving her due compensation, speculating that Trump might rely on financial assistance from his allies, especially in light of the looming, potentially more substantial financial judgment in the New York fraud case, which threatens to exacerbate his financial burden significantly.
In summary, Aronberg painted a grim picture of the former president’s financial and legal outlook, emphasizing the growing challenges Trump faces as he navigates the repercussions of the defamation case and the anticipated judgment in the New York fraud trial.
