As Ivanka Trump made her way into the courthouse on Wednesday morning, she was met with a chorus of voices shouting, "fraud family!"
The heated atmosphere outside the building reflected the intensity surrounding the $250 million civil fraud trial in which she was set to testify.
Despite the vocal opposition, Ivanka Trump, former President Donald Trump's older daughter, faced the proceedings with determination, appearing as a witness rather than a co-defendant, after an appeals court removed her from the case in June.
The trial, which is focused on allegations of falsifying business records, insurance fraud, and conspiracy, holds significant implications for the Trump family. New York Attorney General Letitia James seeks $250 million in fines and severe restrictions on the Trump business operations in New York.
During her testimony, Ivanka Trump emphasized that she was not involved in her father's financial statements, stating, "I wasn't involved in his statement of financial condition. That would have been the company." She maintained composure while being questioned, often responding with concise statements.
State attorneys pressed Ivanka on her role in securing loans from Deutsche Bank for various Trump properties. They presented emails related to her father's financial statements and net worth. At one point, an email she wrote about loan rates was shown, in which she expressed, "It doesn't get better than this."
Ivanka Trump's involvement in the Trump Organization has been a focal point of the trial. Until 2017, she held a position as an executive vice-president alongside her brothers, Donald Jr. and Eric, playing a pivotal role in real estate deals and loans. State attorneys argue that her efforts in securing financing with Deutsche Bank for properties were instrumental.
This trial marks a significant moment for the Trump family, as they face allegations of financial misconduct. The judge's decision will have far-reaching consequences, potentially impacting the ownership of prized New York properties like Trump Tower.
The trial, which began earlier this month, is anticipated to continue until mid-December. Ivanka Trump, along with her father and brothers, represents the final witnesses called by the prosecution. The case continues to draw attention from both supporters and critics of the Trump family, underscoring the significance of the proceedings.
