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A judge has set the sentencing date for Donald Trump in his hush-money case in New York for 10 January, a mere two weeks before his inauguration as president. New York Justice Juan Merchan has indicated that Trump will not face jail time, probation, or a fine, but will receive an “unconditional discharge.”
The judge’s order allows the president-elect to choose between appearing in person or virtually for the hearing.
Donald Trump was convicted in May on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records in connection to a $130,000 payment to adult-film star Stormy Daniels.
These charges stemmed from efforts to conceal reimbursements to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who had paid off the adult-film star to remain silent about an alleged encounter with Trump during the 2016 election campaign.
Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty, claiming the case is a ploy to undermine his potential 2024 presidential bid.
Trump’s team has criticized Judge Merchan’s decision to proceed with sentencing, labeling it as part of a “witch hunt.” They argue that allowing the sentencing to proceed would hinder Trump’s ability to transition into the presidency smoothly and carry out his presidential duties without interference.
The spokesperson for Trump, Steven Cheung, emphasized the need for Trump to be free from distractions caused by ongoing legal battles.
Presidential immunity concerns
Throughout the legal process, Trump has raised concerns about how the case could impact his presidency and governance.
Despite his efforts to argue for immunity based on a Supreme Court ruling, Justice Merchan upheld Trump’s hush money conviction.
The judge proposed alternative measures to address Trump’s worries about being distracted by the case while in office, such as delaying sentencing until after Trump’s potential term in office or ensuring a non-carcerative sentence.
Following the sentencing, Trump may choose to appeal the conviction. While falsifying business records carries a maximum sentence of four years in the US, there is no mandatory minimum term, and imprisonment is not obligatory.
Given Trump’s age and legal history, legal experts have speculated that jail time is unlikely. Additionally, Trump faces charges in multiple state and federal cases, including allegations related to classified documents and attempts to challenge the 2020 election results.
Originally scheduled for sentencing on 26 November, the date was postponed by Justice Merchan after Trump’s election victory. Trump’s legal battles are ongoing, with implications for his political future and the functioning of the presidency.
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