I’ve read, but can’t find a source right now, that the law

in question is used frequently.

I don’t find the law objectionable. The state has a right and obligation to try and ensure a fair level playing field for businesses. It is not just the lenders who were defrauded by Trump obtaining financing at an improved rate by submitting fraudulent financial statements. It is also all the businesses who follow the law and accounting rules. Especially his direct competitors.

It would be very difficult, if not impossible, for all those entities to recognize their harm or quantify it. That is one reason why the state needs to step in on their behalf. A trustworthy open marketplace is essential for the operation of our economy.

The bottom line is that Trump and the Trump Organization blatantly cheated. They broke the law. They tried and succeeded in obtaining an unfair advantage by doing so. The calculated monetary advantage they obtained is $463,000,000.

I have no problem with Trump and his business being harshly punished. Those who play by the rules are owed this at a minimum.