Former President Donald Trump voiced his discontent with his attorneys on Friday, following an appeals court hearing in the defamation case brought by writer E. Jean Carroll. Trump’s criticism came after his legal team argued against the $5 million verdict that found him liable for sexually abusing Carroll in the 1990s and subsequently defaming her.

Speaking to reporters at Trump Tower, Trump stated, “I’m disappointed in my legal team, I’ll be honest with you.” However, he also acknowledged their talent, saying, “they’re good people, talented people.”

Trump’s remarks were made in response to the ongoing litigation, which he characterized as “rigged” due to the presence of “rigged judges” and New York City’s predominantly Democratic population. He expressed sadness at having to defend himself against Carroll’s allegations, despite having “all this legal talent.”

Trump specifically criticized his attorney, D. John Sauer, for not highlighting the issue of a dress allegedly containing his DNA, which was a point of contention before the initial trial. He also faulted an unnamed attorney from his first trial, likely Joe Tacopina, for advising him not to attend the trial, which he ultimately lost.

Trump’s comments reflect his growing frustration with the mounting legal challenges he faces in both criminal and civil cases.