The Fate of Trump's Silent Payment Case Rests on the Judge's Decision
A judge in New York is poised to make a critical decision regarding whether to uphold the criminal conviction related to hush money payments made by President-elect Donald Trump. Judge Juan Merchan is expected to announce his ruling on this matter, stemming from a U.S. Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity, by Tuesday.
Judge Merchan's decision is significant as it will determine whether Trump, who is set to take office on January 20, will face a scheduled criminal trial on November 26. Legal experts indicate that the likelihood of the trial occurring before he takes office is low.
Trump's conviction involved charges of falsifying business records to conceal payments made to an adult film star before the 2016 presidential election. Trump, who was found guilty in May, has consistently maintained his innocence and claimed that the charges are politically motivated. This case marked the first time a U.S. president has been convicted of a crime.
The Supreme Court ruling, arising from one of two federal criminal cases brought against Trump by Special Prosecutor Jack Smith, established that presidents are immune from prosecution for actions taken in the course of their official duties. However, this immunity does not extend to unofficial actions. Trump's defense team argued that the jury was exposed to evidence regarding Trump’s conduct while in office and asserted that, based on this ruling, the case should be dismissed.
Prosecutors from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office contended that the Supreme Court ruling could not apply to this case, which they claim is entirely personal in nature.
If Judge Merchan affirms the conviction, Trump's legal team is expected to request a delay in the criminal trial. Trump could face up to four years in prison on 34 felony counts, but experts suggest that non-incarcerative sentences are more likely.
The outcome of this ruling could also have implications for other legal challenges Trump faces. The Department of Justice is currently assessing how to handle two federal criminal cases against Trump, considering policies regarding prosecuting a sitting president. Additionally, there is a separate pending case in Georgia related to Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.
Trump's campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, stated on Friday that the American people want an end to the exploitation of the justice system for political purposes.
Judge Merchan's decision is anticipated to significantly impact Trump's ability to begin his term without the burden of ongoing legal proceedings.