New York - Former President Donald Trump took the witness stand on Monday in a civil fraud trial, vigorously defending his wealth and business while engaging in a heated exchange with the judge overseeing the case. The trial revolves around allegations that Trump inflated his net worth in a lawsuit brought by the New York attorney general, Letitia James.

During his testimony, Trump not only defended his real estate business, but also launched personal attacks against the judge and the attorney general. He referred to the lawsuit as a "political witch hunt" and claimed that the fraud was being committed by James herself. Trump proudly stated, "I'm worth billions of dollars more than the financial statements."

The contentious exchanges and frequent rebukes from the judge highlighted Trump's refusal to conform to the formal courtroom environment. Despite facing legal troubles, the former president used the opportunity to amplify his claims of political persecution at the hands of government lawyers and judges, functioning as a platform for his campaign to reclaim the White House in 2024.

Speaking to reporters outside the courtroom, Trump expressed his frustration with the proceedings, stating, "People are sick and tired of what's happening. I think it is a very sad day for America."

The trial, one among several legal proceedings that Trump is currently facing, includes both federal and state charges ranging from illegally hoarding classified documents to scheming to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Although the civil fraud case does not carry the risk of imprisonment, it strikes at the core of Trump's carefully crafted brand, as it alleges financial impropriety and suggests that he is worth less than he claims.

Throughout his testimony, Trump vehemently denied any intention to defraud financial institutions and dismissed past public statements about his business dealings as being misquoted or taken too literally. He argued that disclaimers in his financial statements covered any potential missteps and emphasized that no banks or insurance companies had suffered monetary losses as a result of his actions.

Tensions between Trump and Judge Arthur Engoron, who has already fined him for incendiary comments made outside the courtroom, were evident during the trial. Engoron repeatedly scolded Trump for the length and content of his answers, cautioning that he could draw "negative inferences" if Trump failed to rein in his responses.

Despite the challenges at the start of his testimony, Trump was later allowed to give expansive answers without interruption, using the opportunity to criticize both James and the judge. He called James a "political hack" and accused her of using the case to further her own political ambitions. Trump also asserted that the judge had ruled against him without knowing anything about him.

Monday's testimony primarily focused on the allegations that Trump intentionally inflated property values and deceived banks and insurers in pursuit of business deals and loans. Trump attempted to downplay his direct involvement in preparing financial statements and claimed that he merely authorized others to gather the necessary information. He also emphasized that the financial statements included disclaimers, suggesting recipients should conduct their own calculations.

The trial continues to unfold, with Judge Engoron expected to make a decision. While the outcome of the civil fraud case may not result in imprisonment, it carries significant implications for Trump's reputation and the allegations of financial impropriety that hover over his real estate empire.