After facing a string of charges in US court, Donald Trump’s supporters have launched a GoFundMe page to recover the cost of the former president’s legal battles.
Trump was hit with two massive penalties stemming from two separate civil trials in New York.
One for defamation against writer E Jean Carroll to the value of $US83 million, and the other totalling $US355 million plus interest for fudging asset values on financial reporting documents.
To combat such a debt — which will have some impact on the businessman’s wallet — diehard followers have reached into theirs.
Elena Cardone, the wife of renowned American author and successful entrepreneur Grant Cardone, launched the page on Saturday, titled, “Stand with Trump; Fund the $355M Unjust Judgment”.
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Mrs Cardona detailed her perspective on the matter, claiming her solidarity with Trump was also a show of support to business owners across the nation.
“The recent legal battles he faces are not just an attack on him, but an attack on the very ideals of fairness and due process that every American deserves” she wrote.
“It’s a moment that calls into question the balance of justice and the application of law, disproportionately aimed at silencing a voice that has been at the forefront of advocating for American strength, prosperity, and security.
“This is more than a legal fund; it’s a call to all business owners and entrepreneurs to rally in defence of all businesses and for a man who has never hesitated to stand in defence of us.”
The former model and actress’ words were heard by like-minded supporters, although with her husband’s net wealth estimated at US $600 million, she could have done more than simply speak about the so-called “unjust” treatment.
Trump revealed he planned to fight the charges soon after they were handed down during the week.
“We’ll appeal, we’ll be successful,” he said.
“A crooked New York judge ruled that I have to pay $355m for having built the perfect company. Great cash, great buildings, great everything.”
To date, a total of $US203,550 of the ambitious $US355 million has been raised by his supporters, with more than 4400 individual donors.
Responses to the page have flooded in, with followers throwing their virtual arms around their fair-haired hero.
“President Trump does not deserve all the harassment he has been getting. If I could donate more I would,” commented one person.
Another said: “I love a free America. I think DJT will make America Great Again. I’m grateful for his strength to not give up. Peace be with him. God bless America. I pray for victory by the blood of Jesus. Amen. Selah.”
With the potential for further litigation, it’s not clear exactly when or how Trump will pay back the owed charges.
But with the measly figure currently raised by his less affluent allies, it may finally all come crashing down for the American dreamer.