Trump's Legal Team Grapples with Consequences of Fraud Ruling
A state judge ruled that former President Donald Trump persistently committed fraud by inflating the value of his assets, dealing a major blow to his business empire. The judge effectively revoked Trump's licenses to operate his flagship New York properties, including Trump Tower, Trump International Hotel, and a 72-story office building. Trump is expected to appeal the ruling and has already sued the judge. If the decision stands, the Trump Organization could face a sell-off of properties or be handed to a court-appointed chief executive, potentially Barbara S. Jones. The ruling is based on a little-known state law that allows the attorney general to pursue "persistent fraud" without having to show intent or financial loss. Trump denies wrongdoing and attacks the judge and attorney general, who seek to permanently bar him from running a business in New York.