WASHINGTON: President-elect Donald Trump has asked the Supreme Court to delay sentencing in his hush money case.
This unusual appeal comes after a New York state appellate court denied Trump’s postponement request.
The sentencing, scheduled for Friday, stems from his conviction on falsifying business records charges.
Trump’s lawyers claim the delay is necessary to avoid harm to the presidency and federal government operations.
Legal Battle Over Immunity and Conviction
Trump’s appeal relies on the Supreme Court’s previous ruling granting broad immunity to former presidents.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s office was ordered to respond to Trump’s request by Thursday morning.
The Supreme Court is expected to decide whether to grant a temporary pause on the sentencing proceedings.
Judge Juan Merchan, overseeing the case, has already denied Trump’s immunity arguments in earlier rulings.
Case Details and Trump’s Argument
The conviction relates to payments reimbursing $130,000 in hush money to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election.
Trump denies any affair with Daniels and claims the case distracts from his presidential transition.
His attorneys argue defending himself during sentencing jeopardizes national security and impedes his upcoming responsibilities.
They describe this as an “unprecedented” situation that risks undermining the American presidency.
What’s Next for the Case
If successful, Trump’s legal team could delay sentencing and extend the case over several months.
The Manhattan DA’s office contends a brief sentencing hearing won’t interfere with Trump’s duties as president-elect.
Merchan has emphasized that no legal penalties would affect Trump before his inauguration on January 20.
The Supreme Court must decide soon whether to pause the case or let sentencing proceed on schedule.