In a New York City courtroom Wednesday, tensions flared between former President Donald Trump and the presiding judge in writer E. Jean Carroll’s defamation trial. Carroll, accusing Trump of sexual assault in a 1990s department store dressing room, is seeking $10 million in damages after Trump publicly refuted her claims and called her a liar.

The courtroom drama unfolded when Carroll’s lawyer, Shawn Crowley, flagged Trump’s audible commentary throughout the proceedings. “Mr. Trump has been making loud remarks, calling this trial a ‘witch hunt’ and a ‘con job,'” Crowley asserted, adding that Trump’s dismissive head shakes and mutters during Carroll’s testimony were an attempt to sway the jury before she even finished speaking.

Judge Lewis Kaplan, unimpressed by Trump’s conduct, delivered a stark warning. “Mr. Trump,” he stated firmly, “your presence here is not a guaranteed right. Disruptive behavior, including disregarding my orders to keep your voice down, can and will result in your removal from the courtroom.”

Trump, ever defiant, shot back with a sardonic quip, throwing his hands up and saying, “I understand you’re probably eager for me to do that.” The judge, unfazed, countered, “I know you would. You just can’t control yourself in this circumstance, apparently.”

This heated exchange encapsulates the ongoing legal battle between Trump and Carroll. In 2019, a separate jury found Trump liable for sexual battery and defamation in another lawsuit brought by Carroll. However, the issue of rape remained undecided. Trump, unwavering in his denials, has used the legal fight as a rallying cry for his political supporters.

As the defamation trial unfolds, New Yorkers watch with bated breath. The outcome could have significant financial repercussions for Trump and potentially dent his image in the upcoming Republican primary. Whether Trump can navigate this legal challenge while maintaining his political momentum remains a crucial question.

One thing is clear: the courtroom clash between Trump and Judge Kaplan has added a new layer of drama to an already captivating case. As the trial progresses, New Yorkers can expect further fireworks, legal maneuvering, and a potential verdict that will reverberate far beyond the courtroom walls.