Former President Donald Trump expressed that his criminal conviction has been particularly harsh on his family, especially his wife Melania and their 18-year-old son, Barron.
In his first television interview since being convicted of falsifying business records to cover up an alleged affair with porn star Stormy Daniels, Trump, 77, told Fox and Friends that the ordeal has been tougher on his family than on himself.
Trump suggested that the “salacious” nature of the trial and the gag order preventing him from fully responding were tactics by “bad people” to create chaos. He acknowledged the difficulty his wife Melania faces, having to hear and read about the allegations constantly, though he noted she is managing.
Regarding his son Barron, who recently graduated, Trump spoke proudly of his achievements, mentioning his academic success and college acceptances. He described Barron as tall, good-looking, smart, and cool.
Trump criticized the “rigged” trial and, despite the gag order, vowed to appeal the decision. He expressed honor in the legal battle, stating it was a fight for the Constitution.
The charges stem from a $130,000 payment by his former lawyer Michael Cohen to Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair. Trump’s sentencing is scheduled for July 11, where he could face up to four years in jail.