The judge presiding over former President Donald Trump's New York case was recorded smiling for the cameras as the trial began on Monday.
New York City Judge Arthur Engoron was quickly criticized for the action as footage of the moment spread online.
Trump judge faces online backlash after smiling, posing for cameras in courtroom: 'Partisan Democrat clown' https://t.co/cyuHwFUNMg
— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 3, 2023
"This New York City judge is a partisan Democrat clown," Article III Project founder and president Mike Davis posted on X, formerly Twitter, according to Fox News. "Disgraceful."
"Just smiling and laughing as they turn our country into a third world banana republic," State Freedom Caucus Network Comms Director Greg Price posted on X.
Trump judge faces online backlash after smiling, posing for cameras in courtroom: 'Partisan Democrat clown' https://t.co/cyuHwFUNMg
— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 3, 2023
"Think about the optics of that: You’re in court with the judge who is going to decide your legal fate, a very serious matter that impacts American citizens and the American legal justice system every day," the Western Journal reported.
"Instead of treating the matter with the gravity it needed (indeed, as heavy as any legal case can be, this one involves a former president and leading GOP presidential candidate), Engoron treated the matter like a conman who has found his mark," it added.
A campaign event rather than legal proceeding. He's plead the 5th. Atty's didn't check 'Jury trial.' Handlers smile on cue as Trump attacks Biden's beach time, a rogue judge & projects wealth, while Alina looks spooked. Judge won't allow cameras in court https://t.co/lwQe7MWJpN
— Lisa Burnett (@aolanisausalito) October 2, 2023
"Former President Donald Trump showed up to the opening day of the $250 million civil fraud trial against him, his eldest sons, their companies and Trump Organization executives in Manhattan on Monday. Trump's court appearance turned the event into an extension of the campaign trail," CNN reported.
"Outside the courthouse, Trump said he attended the trial Monday so he could 'watch this witch hunt myself.' He attacked New York Attorney General Letitia James for going after him instead of violent crime, and later criticized Judge Arthur Engoron, who is overseeing the case," it continued.
Trump has continued to argue that the case is a political attack against him as he seeks a return to the White House.
So far, the efforts have only helped his poll numbers. Trump continues to stand far above GOP challengers and is polling strongly against President Joe Biden.
The case may not go his way, but Trump could still end up winning again in 2024.
