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President Donald Trump hinted in a Monday press conference that he may start spending “a lot of money” on his campaign.
When reporters asked if he was going to contribute money to his campaign, Trump replied, “Well, first of all, it’s none of your business, frankly. I might. I might do that. I have the option.”
Trump continued, “But if I have to spend $500 million on a bond, I wouldn’t have that option. I’d have to start selling things.” The comment referenced the recent judgment in the New York state civil fraud case against Trump, in which Judge Arthur Engoron ordered Trump to pay an exorbitant bond of $455 million, representing the judgment against him plus interest, while he pursues an appeal.
The news comes after the announcement Monday that an appellate court has reduced the amount Trump will be required to pay to secure a bond. The decision was a massive win for Trump, who was facing the potential seizure of assets. Trump has stated he will pay the newly reduced bond amount $175 million quickly and praised the decision of the appellate court.
Trump has criticized Judge Engoron and New York Attorney General Letitia James, calling the case against him and the amount of the judgment a form of election interference. In his comments on Monday, Trump continued to emphasize the motive behind the judgment as a way to block him from spending his own money on his campaign if he chooses to do so.
“Why should I let a crooked judge make a decision to give $450 million that allows me to spend very little money on my campaign?” Trump asked. “I’ll be spending money on my campaign. I might spend a lot of money on my campaign, but I should have that option. A crooked judge shouldn’t say we’re going to have you post a bond and take all of that money that I could be spending on the campaign.”
The appellate court decision gives Trump gives Trump some financial breathing room to handle his appeal process without having to forfeit his assets. It also may give him the option to invest in his own campaign at precisely the right time, as election season kicks into high gear.