"Shark Tank" host Kevin O'Leary and CNN anchor Laura Coates clashed on TV. They debated a civil fraud ruling against former President Trump in New York.
Judge Arthur Engoron ordered Trump to pay $355 million for fraud. The lawsuit accused Trump of inflating assets and committing various frauds.
Engoron found Trump guilty of multiple fraud charges. These included falsifying records and insurance fraud.
Coates questioned if the ruling would deter business in New York. O'Leary challenged her perspective, separating the issue from Trump.
"What fraud?" O'Leary responded, arguing it's not just about Trump. He explained that negotiation over asset values is common among developers and banks.
O'Leary highlighted the routine nature of haggling over property values. He questioned New York's attractiveness for investors post-ruling.
Coates disagreed, suggesting New York would still attract investment. The conversation turned into a respectful exchange between the lawyer and the TV personality.
"I respect you because you’re a lawyer," O'Leary admitted. Coates retorted, emphasizing respect for her multiple qualities, not just her legal expertise.