MSNBC legal correspondent Lisa Rubin has provided insights into the appeal of Trump's defamation verdict in the case against journalist E. Jean Carroll.
According to Alternet, Rubin's analysis sheds light on unexpected elements that emerged during the appeal hearing.
The appeal hearing, which took place last week, revealed what Rubin described as "two chilling acts" from Trump. These actions, observed in the courtroom, included Trump surveying the assembled press and public with narrowed eyes and seemingly appraising a blonde woman seated across the room, who was later identified as Carroll herself.
Trump's demeanor during the hearing has drawn attention from legal experts. Rubin noted that Trump's actions in the courtroom echoed his behavior during previous trials, potentially indicating a pattern in his approach to legal proceedings.
Carroll, described as wearing a fitted skirt suit with her hair tied back, maintained a composed demeanor throughout the hearing. This contrast in behavior between the two central figures of the case has become a point of interest for observers.
The legal expert's observations provide a glimpse into the dynamics at play during high-profile legal proceedings involving the former president.
Contrary to expectations, the appeal hearing shifted focus away from Carroll and onto another of Trump's accusers, Jessica Leeds. Leeds had previously alleged that Trump groped her on an airplane in the late 1970s, an accusation that came to light shortly after the release of the infamous "Access Hollywood" tape in 2016.
Rubin emphasized the significance of this shift, noting that it introduced a new element to the ongoing legal saga. The inclusion of Leeds' allegations in the appeal process adds another layer of complexity to the case.
This unexpected turn in the appeal process highlights the intricate nature of the legal challenges facing the former president.
Following the hearing, Trump made public comments at Trump Tower that have caught the attention of legal experts. Rubin quoted Trump as saying:
So think of the impracticality of this. I'm famous. I'm in a plane. People are coming into the plane, and I'm looking at a woman, and I grab her and I start kissing her and making out with her. What are the chances of that happening? What are the chances? And frankly, I know you're going to say, 'It's a terrible thing to say,' but it couldn't have happened. It didn't happen, and she would not have been the chosen one.
These remarks, particularly Trump's assertion that Leeds "made up the story," have raised concerns about potential further legal repercussions. Rubin noted Trump's apparent realization of the implications of his statements, quoting him as concluding, "Now I assume she'll sue me now for defamation."
The former president's post-hearing comments have introduced the possibility of additional legal challenges, potentially complicating his already complex legal situation.
In summary, the appeal of Trump's defamation verdict has taken an unexpected turn, with the focus shifting to Jessica Leeds' allegations. Trump's behavior in the courtroom and his subsequent public comments have drawn attention from legal experts. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further legal developments as the appeal process continues.
