In a recent development, Judge Arthur Engoron has decided not to step aside from the case that found Donald Trump liable for fraud and ordered him to pay $454 million. Trump had requested Judge Engoron's recusal, claiming that the judge had engaged in "prohibited communications" with a real estate lawyer regarding the case prior to rendering his decision earlier this year.

However, in an order issued on Thursday, Judge Engoron firmly stated his confidence in his impartiality, stating, "I am supremely confident in my ability to continue to serve, as I always have, impartially." He further argued that recusing himself three years into the litigation process would result in "immense prejudice."

The request for recusal came after NBC published an interview with real estate attorney Adam Bailey on the same day the verdict was announced. Bailey claimed that he had spoken to Judge Engoron three weeks ago, recounting an encounter at the courthouse where they discussed the case. Bailey stated, "I wanted him to know what I think [about the case] and why... I really want him to get it right."

Bailey clarified to CNN that his conversation with Judge Engoron was solely about the September summary judgment decision and that it was the only topic he discussed with reporters. NBC stands by its story.

In response to these allegations, Judge Engoron revealed that he was "accosted" by Bailey while leaving the courthouse one day in February. Describing the incident as a "90-second nothingburger" and Bailey's actions as that of a "landlord-tenant lawyer ranting," the judge emphatically denied basing any part of his rulings on the encounter. He firmly stated, "I did not initiate, welcome, encourage, engage in, or learn from much less enjoy, Bailey's tirade. I did not base any part of any of my rulings on it, as Bailey has outlandishly, mistakenly, and defamatorily claimed."

Additionally, Judge Engoron confirmed that he has not been contacted by the Commission on Judicial Conduct and remains unaware of any ongoing investigation into his conduct.

As the case continues to be appealed, the decision by Judge Engoron to stay involved may contribute to increased controversy and scrutiny surrounding the already high-profile legal battle between Donald Trump and the fraud allegations against him.

It remains to be seen how this latest development will impact the ongoing legal proceedings and whether any further actions will be taken regarding the allegations made against Judge Engoron.