GOP presidential candidate Chris Christie criticized former President Trump for using campaign donations to pay for his legal expenses amidst multiple court battles.
“When you look at his recent campaign filings, it’s clear that he has used a significant portion of the money donated by middle-class Americans to cover his own legal fees,” Christie stated during an interview on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” on Tuesday. “It’s worth noting that this is a billionaire we’re talking about.”
Christie suggested that instead of utilizing campaign donations, Trump should consider selling assets such as Trump Tower, his plane, or one of his golf courses to finance his legal defense.
“Rather than taking $25, $50, or $100 from everyday Americans who believe they are contributing to his presidential campaign, he should be using his own personal resources,” Christie emphasized.
According to recent campaign finance reports, Trump’s joint fundraising committee accumulated nearly $54 million during the first half of 2023. However, the filings also reveal that approximately $25 million from those funds was allocated towards legal fees, indicating that a significant portion of the donations has already been spent.
Additional sources, including a person familiar with the matter, suggest that Trump’s spending on legal expenses may have reached around $40 million, as reported by The Associated Press.
Christie also criticized Trump for his ongoing legal battles, questioning how Republicans can expect independent voters to support a candidate who potentially faces imprisonment.
“Let’s be realistic here. By the time we reach the debate in three weeks, Donald Trump will likely be on bail in four different jurisdictions,” Christie said.
He further questioned, “Why would independent voters in a general election vote for someone who is out on bail and may face one, if not two, trials during the general election with the possibility of prison time?”