Stefanik Files Complaint Against Judge in Trump NY Trial, Citing 'Bias' and 'Bizarre Behavior'

Rep. Elise Stefanik, the No. 3 House Republican leader, has filed an ethics complaint against Judge Arthur Engoron, accusing him of showing 'bias' and engaging in 'bizarre behavior' in the ongoing New York civil trial of former President Donald Trump.

In a letter to the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct, Stefanik expressed her serious concerns about Judge Engoron's alleged lack of impartiality and disregard for the defendant's rights.

Stefanik stated that Engoron's behavior has no place in the judicial system, particularly in a high-profile case involving a leading candidate for President of the United States.

The trial, brought by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, centers around allegations that the Trump Organization and its top officials knowingly misrepresented the value of multiple real estate holdings over the years.

Throughout the trial, Trump and his three adult children have testified, shedding light on the inner workings of the Trump Organization.

Stefanik's complaint against Engoron highlights incidents such as the judge smiling when cameras were allowed into the courtroom, which Trump allies interpret as a sign of bias.

Additionally, Stefanik criticizes Engoron for imposing a limited gag order on Trump and his lawyers, citing threats made against the judge and his staff.

Stefanik argues that the gag order violates Trump's constitutional right to political speech and emphasizes that defendants in politically charged cases should be allowed to express their opinions on the process.

The congresswoman also questions Engoron's valuing of Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, considering it unrealistically low and further undermining his judgment.

Stefanik suggests that the case should have been assigned to expert judges in the Commercial Division, rather than remaining with Engoron, implying that his presence diminishes the credibility of New York's judicial system.

Both Trump and Engoron have exchanged jabs during the trial, with Trump even accusing the judge of colluding with James against him.

Stefanik's complaint adds fuel to the fire, raising concerns about the ongoing politicization of the trial and its potential impact on the outcome.

The Commission on Judicial Conduct has not provided any comments on Stefanik's letter, as its proceedings are confidential until a judge is found to have committed ethical misconduct.