As the trial of former President Donald Trump is set to commence on Monday, we delve into some of the statements made by Trump in relation to the Manhattan criminal case against him. These allegations primarily revolve around his purported falsification of business records linked to a hush money scheme during the 2016 presidential election.
Trump’s Unfounded Accusations of Biden’s Involvement
Trump has consistently alleged that the Manhattan case is being covertly managed by President Joe Biden, his administration, or the Justice Department under Biden’s tenure. Trump has pointed to Matthew Colangelo, a former senior Justice Department official under Biden who joined the office of the Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, as proof of this claim.
Fact Check: There is no evidence to support Trump’s allegations. Firstly, there is no proof that Biden or his administration has had any involvement in initiating or managing Bragg’s case. Secondly, there is no evidence to suggest that the Biden administration influenced Colangelo’s decision to join Bragg’s office. Lastly, the claim that Colangelo oversees Bragg is baseless; Bragg is Colangelo’s superior.
Trump’s Incorrect Statements on Manhattan’s Crime Rates
Trump has repeatedly asserted that Bragg is prosecuting him despite a record-high number of murders and violent crime in Manhattan.
Fact Check: Trump’s claims are far from accurate. Manhattan, like New York City as a whole, is nowhere near record highs for murder or violent crime.
Trump’s Unsubstantiated Accusations Against Judge Merchan’s Daughter
Trump has accused Judge Juan Merchan’s daughter, Loren Merchan, of posting a picture of him behind bars on social media.
Fact Check: There is no evidence to suggest that Loren Merchan was the one who posted the image. A spokesperson for the court has confirmed that Loren Merchan did not make the post.
Trump’s Exaggerations About Merchan’s Gag Order
Trump has criticized Judge Merchan’s gag order, claiming it prevents him from speaking.
Fact Check: Trump’s claims are exaggerations. The gag order is far narrower than Trump suggests and does not generally forbid Trump from speaking.
Trump’s Vague Claims About Bragg and Soros
While attacking Bragg, Trump has repeatedly mentioned liberal billionaire and Democratic donor George Soros without explaining their connection.
Fact Check: Trump’s claims about Soros and Bragg need context. Soros did not donate to Bragg’s election campaign, and there is no evidence that Soros had any role in Bragg’s decision to prosecute Trump.
Trump’s False Claims About His Indictments Compared to Al Capone
Trump has claimed that he has been indicted “more than Al Capone.”
Fact Check: Trump’s claim is false. Trump has been indicted four times, while Capone was indicted at least six times.