Trump Sentenced to Unconditional Discharge in Hush Money Case
In a historic decision, President-elect Donald Trump was sentenced to an unconditional discharge on Friday, just 10 days before his inauguration for a second White House term. This verdict marks a significant milestone, as Trump will become the first criminal convict to occupy the Oval Office.
A “Terrible Experience”
Trump, who attended the hearing remotely, expressed his discontent with the outcome, calling it a “very terrible experience” and a “political witch hunt.” He claimed the case was brought to damage his reputation and influence the election.
The Charges
A jury found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels. The payment was made shortly before the 2016 presidential election to silence Daniels about her alleged affair with Trump.
The Sentence
Manhattan Judge Juan Merchan explained that an unconditional discharge was the only lawful sentence he could deliver without encroaching on the office of the presidency. The protection of that office “is a factor that overrides all others,” Merchan said.
Prosecutor’s Remarks
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass noted that the charges against Trump each carry a sentence of up to four years in state prison. However, he recommended a sentence of unconditional release, citing the need to respect the office of the presidency.
Trump’s Reaction
Despite his complaints in the courtroom, Trump declared victory on social media, claiming that the penalty-free sentence proved the case lacked merit. His post ignored the fact that Merchan gave an unconditional discharge due to Trump’s impending presidency.
A Sad Day for the Country
Trump attorney Todd Blanche expressed disappointment with the outcome, calling it a “sad day for President Trump and his family and friends, but it’s also… a sad day for this country.”
The Road Ahead
The U.S. Supreme Court lifted the final legal barrier to Trump’s sentencing, refusing his request to block proceedings in the case. Trump still has the right to appeal on claims that Merchan improperly allowed certain evidence at trial.
A Divided Decision
The Supreme Court’s decision was narrow, with a 5-to-4 vote. Trump appointee Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined fellow conservative Chief Justice John Roberts and three liberal justices to issue the majority decision.
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