Donald Trump famously said Mexican immigrants are rapists and criminals. This was early in his campaign. The chef at his then new hotel in Washington, D.C., found those remarks offensive. Chef Jose Andres backed out of his written agreement planning the new hotel. Mr. Trump filed suit for breach of contract. Now, the chef has insisted on an opportunity to depose Mr. Trump. Mr. Andres is Spanish-American. He was born in Spain. He owns restaurants all across the U.S. He is a celebrity in his own right.
The President elect has been trying to avoid the deposition. But, the judge refused. He ordered the new President to appear for his deposition. The judge ruled he must appear for his deposition the first week of January. In a lawsuit of this sort, Mr. Trump’s remarks are center piece of the lawsuit. Of course, he must be deposed.
And, really, it is Mr. Trump’s lawsuit. As I sometimes have to remind my clients, if you pick the forum, then you must abide by the forum’s rules. See CNN news report.
Mr. Andres has suggested they settle their differences and make a donation to a charity. Mr. Andres tweeted his suggestion. But, so far, the incoming world leader insists on going to trial.