NEW YORK: A New York judge ruled that President-elect Donald Trump will not face penalties in his hush money conviction.
Judge Juan Merchan upheld the jury’s conviction, rejecting efforts to dismiss it after Trump’s reelection in November.
Trump now becomes the first convicted felon to win the presidency, further complicating his legal and political challenges.
The sentencing is set for January 10, just days before his second inauguration.
Judge Cites Need for Finality
Merchan ruled an unconditional discharge would provide finality while allowing Trump to appeal the conviction.
No penalty ensures Trump can fulfill his presidential duties without interference from legal obligations.
The judge agreed to a virtual sentencing, easing concerns about the transition’s mental and physical demands.
Merchan referenced US Justice Department opinions suggesting sitting presidents are immune from prosecution.
Conviction Linked to 2016 Election Scandal
Trump was convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records in connection to hush payments before the 2016 election.
The payments reimbursed attorney Michael Cohen for silencing adult-film actress Stormy Daniels about an alleged affair.
Trump has denied any affair but maintains the payments were unrelated to campaign violations.
Delays in sentencing followed Supreme Court rulings on presidential immunity, complicating the legal proceedings.
Legal Teams Clash Over Dismissal
Trump’s lawyers argued his reelection status and immunity should shield him from further criminal proceedings.
Judge Merchan dismissed claims that immunity or federal supremacy invalidated the jury’s verdict.
Prosecutors emphasized that the evidence was unrelated to Trump’s official duties as president.
The Manhattan district attorney maintained the conviction was sound and the jury’s decision should stand.
Trump’s Team Vows Continued Legal Fight
Trump’s spokesperson Steven Cheung criticized the ruling, calling it a violation of the Supreme Court’s immunity decision.
Cheung pledged Trump would continue resisting legal actions, labeling them as part of “ongoing Witch Hunts.”
Supporters and legal experts anticipate further appeals as Trump transitions to his new term.
The ruling intensifies the intersection of Trump’s legal battles and political future as president-elect.
