After the ruling, Trump repeated his false accusations that opponents were conducting a “witch-hunt” against him.

Trump believes he is being dealt with more harshly because he is the leading candidate to run on behalf of the Republicans in the presidential election. He said through his lawyer that he would appeal the verdict.

There are several lawsuits against Trump, including a criminal case related to his $130,000 payment to pornographic actress Stormy Daniels.

There is also an investigation into his role in the storming of the Washington Capitol. Trump supporters attacked the House of Representatives in January 2021, shortly after he lost the presidential election.