In the latest development of the ongoing civil fraud trial involving former President Donald Trump, his niece Mary Trump has publicly criticized her cousin Ivanka Trump's attempt to avoid testifying. During an MSNBC interview on November 5, Mary Trump highlighted what she perceives as "breathtaking entitlement" after Ivanka cited "undue hardship" due to the trial coinciding with a school week for her children. The judge overseeing the case, Arthur Engoron, denied Ivanka's request for a delay.
Mary Trump, a licensed psychologist, remarked on the convenience of Ivanka's excuse, considering the help she and her husband, Jared Kushner, likely have at their disposal, which is not available to most families. She also pointed out that Kushner could presumably take care of their children, undermining the claim of undue hardship.
The behavior of Donald Trump's legal team has also been noted as "interesting" by Mary Trump. She observed that the former President's attorneys seem to be provoking Judge Engoron, who is presiding over New York Attorney General Letitia James’ lawsuit against Trump and his business entities for allegedly inflating asset values.
Mary Trump expressed skepticism about whether the legal team understands that Judge Engoron is not susceptible to the same tactics that might sway Trump's political base, emphasizing that the judge will focus on facts and evidence.
Journalist Maggie Haberman has also expressed doubts about Ivanka's motives for avoiding testimony. Haberman noted that part of Ivanka's appeal to pause the trial was denied and that her resistance might be rooted in avoiding uncomfortable moments similar to those experienced during her testimony before the House Select Committee investigating the January 6th events, which reportedly angered the former President.
This trial is part of a series of legal challenges facing the Trump family, with the New York Attorney General's office seeking $250 million in damages. The case continues to unfold as the Trump family navigates the legal system, with public and media scrutiny intensifying around their every move.