In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, President-elect Donald Trump criticized Judge Juan Merchan's decision to uphold his guilty verdict in the New York v. Trump case. Trump expressed his belief that the case is politically motivated, stating that Democrats are "seeking retribution" after previous legal challenges against him have failed. He emphasized his innocence, characterizing the proceedings as a "witch hunt" orchestrated by the Biden administration and the Department of Justice.

Trump questioned Judge Merchan's impartiality, alleging a conflict of interest and accusing him of acting on behalf of the Democratic Party. He also mentioned the ongoing gag order, which restricts his ability to discuss certain aspects of the case, including Judge Merchan's daughter's involvement with a political consulting firm that has worked for prominent Democrats. Trump further criticized the judge for "fabricating a case out of thin air" to benefit his political adversaries.

The president-elect highlighted the dismissal of other legal cases against him, including those related to classified documents and alleged 2020 election interference. He contrasted these outcomes with the New York case, reiterating his claim that it is baseless and politically driven. Trump also referenced the disqualification of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from prosecuting him in a separate election interference case in Georgia.

Trump's spokesman and incoming White House Communications Director, Steven Cheung, echoed the president-elect's sentiments, arguing that Judge Merchan's order contradicts established legal precedents and calling for the immediate dismissal of the case. Cheung emphasized the importance of allowing Trump to focus on the presidential transition and fulfill his duties without legal impediments. He affirmed Trump's commitment to contesting the charges until they are resolved.