The state of New York plans to rest its civil case against former President Donald Trump after his daughter Ivanka Trump testifies on Wednesday, clearing the way for the defense to give its side of the story.
New York Attorney General Letitia James’ suit against the former president reached a crescendo with Mr. Trump’s combative testimony Monday. But there are weeks to go in the trial before Judge Arthur Engoron rules on the state’s claims and possible penalties against the Trump Organization.
The state alleges Mr. Trump and his business repeatedly submitted fraudulent financial information to gain favorable terms on loans and insurance.
“This case will go on. We look forward to hearing the testimony of Ivanka Trump on Wednesday. Justice will prevail,” Ms. James said after Mr. Trump’s testimony.
Ivanka Trump worked in the Trump White House but has distanced herself from politics and her father’s 2024 campaign. She tried to avoid testifying in the case against her father and brothers, though Judge Engoron decided her business ties to New York made her a worthwhile witness.
Legal pundits say Ms. Trump will want to avoid putting her family members in legal jeopardy but will also try to distance herself from the lawsuit as much as possible.
The trial took a break for Election Day on Tuesday, but the state will question Ms. Trump on direct examination before the defense gets a chance to cross-examine her Thursday morning. Afterward, the state is expected to rest its case and the defense will make a series of motions.
Mr. Trump’s team will start its defense next week. Defense lawyer Christopher Kise told the court his side expects to wrap its case by Dec. 15.
The ex-president took the witness stand Monday to repeat his claim that Democrats are using the courts to harass him during his 2024 presidential campaign. He also boasted about his properties while admitting the organization made mistakes at times, such as in its valuation of his apartment at Trump Tower, as the state tried to link Mr. Trump with financial statements at the heart of the case.
Judge Engoron ruled against Mr. Trump on one of Ms. James’ fraud claims before the trial began, though he must decide on other claims and penalties.
• Tom Howell Jr. can be reached at thowell@washingtontimes.com.