Updated February 18, 2024 at 11:22 a.m. ET
Top line
Former President Trump raged against Judges Arthur Engoron, Fannie Willis and others in a speech in Michigan on Saturday, a day after Engoron ruled that Trump owed more than $350 million in a civil fraud case — which Trump repeatedly called a “total sham.”
Key facts
Trump's attacks on Engoron were similar to the Truth Social posts he made about Friday's ruling, and he also mocked Fannie Willis, the Fulton County district attorney who is prosecuting him and 18 others over efforts to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia.
But then Trump attacked E. Jane Carroll – to whom he already owes more than $80 million from a defamation suit – said “I'm saying who the hell is she, who is the woman” – sparking new speculation that Carroll will sue Trump again for defamation. Defamation.
the shadow
On January 29th interview With Rachel Maddow on MSNBC, Carroll said she would sue Trump if he defamed her again. Roberta Kaplan, one of Carroll's attorneys, said in an interview with Good Morning America that “all options were on the table” in the face of future defamatory statements.
Crucial quotes
“This disgusting abuse of power is not just an attack on me,” Trump said. “They are actually an attack on you and all Americans.”
Huge number
More than $440 million. That's how much Trump owes in legal fees — from more than $350 million in the civil fraud case and more than $80 million in the defamation case brought by E. Jean Carroll.
Forbes rating
We estimate that Trump's net worth is about $2.6 billion as of October, with an estimated $640 million in cash and personal assets.
What you should pay attention to
Trump will appear in court on criminal charges for the first time next month, and jury selection is scheduled to begin on March 25. The former president was indicted — and pleaded not guilty — to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in August.
Surprising fact
On Saturday, the former president also launched a line of $399 high-top sneakers. During a speech at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia, Trump said it was “something.” [he’s] “We've been talking about it for 12 years.”
Main background
His fiery speech Saturday was the first time Trump has publicly addressed his legal troubles since the Engoron ruling. Last May, he was also ordered to pay Carroll $5 million for sexual assault and defamation after a jury found him guilty of those charges.
In-depth reading
Trump launches $399 sneaker line in former president's latest merchandise sale (Forbes)
Here is how rich Donald Trump is (Forbes)
Trump slams $350 million 'Sham-Shaam' fraud ruling – as his campaign raises funds (Forbes)
Fanny Willis Admits Romance But Criticizes 'Offensive' Lies About Timeline (Forbes)
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