President-elect Donald Trump is facing sentencing on Friday, January 10, 2025, for his New York hush money conviction after the nation’s highest court declined to intervene. This moment in U.S. history is unprecedented, with a state judge set to determine the consequences for the felonies committed by the former leader.
Despite being just 10 days away from his inauguration, Judge Juan M. Merchan is planning to issue an unconditional discharge as the sentence, with prosecutors not opposing this decision. This would mean no jail time, probation, or fines for Mr. Trump, but the final outcome will be determined in Friday’s proceeding.
Regardless of the sentencing, Mr. Trump will be the first person convicted of a felony to assume the presidency. He is expected to appear via video from his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, and will have the opportunity to address the court. The judge’s decision to opt for an unconditional discharge aims to avoid constitutional complications that could arise if a penalty were imposed during Mr. Trump’s presidency.
The hush money case involves allegations that Mr. Trump manipulated his business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels, a porn actor. Daniels was allegedly paid off to prevent her from disclosing a past sexual encounter with Mr. Trump. The former president has vehemently denied the accusations, claiming they are politically motivated.
Mr. Trump’s legal team has made numerous attempts to challenge the trial and overturn the conviction, citing presidential immunity and other legal arguments. However, these efforts have been unsuccessful, leading to the upcoming sentencing on Friday, January 10, 2025.
While other criminal cases against Mr. Trump have either concluded or stalled, the focus remains on the impending sentencing and its implications for the former president. The finality of this decision is crucial, balancing the need for justice with the respect for the rule of law.
Published – January 10, 2025 07:52 pm IST
