Donald Trump criticized his legal team for their work in the E. Jean Carroll defamation case while they stood behind him at a press conference.
Trump attended a hearing in New York on Friday to appeal his $5 million 2023 civil jury verdict that he sexually abused Carroll decades ago in a department store, and then defamed her.
Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Trump criticized the work of his own legal team which includes campaign advisor Alina Habba, as they stood behind him.
“I feel sad that I have to explain all this with all the legal talent here,” Trump said. “But legal talent cannot overcome rigged judges. Honestly, I am disappointed with my legal talent.”
The three-judge panel is not expected to issue a ruling in the case until after the November presidential election.
A separate jury awarded Carroll another $83.3 million in January on the same allegations. Trump is also appealing that verdict.
