The case centers on payments made during Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, intended to conceal an alleged affair. Trump’s legal team sought to dismiss the charges, citing presidential immunity and potential disruptions to governance. However, Judge Merchan rejected these arguments, asserting that immunity does not extend to a president-elect.
This development positions Trump as the first U.S. president to assume office with a felony conviction. While he cannot pardon himself for state crimes, his legal team plans to appeal the conviction.
Trump has consistently labeled the case a politically motivated “witch hunt.” Following the judge’s ruling, he criticized the proceedings, asserting that Democrats are attempting to undermine his presidency.
The sentencing is set just ten days before Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025. Judge Merchan has stated that Trump may appear at the sentencing either in person or virtually.
This unprecedented situation continues to unfold, with significant implications for the intersection of legal accountability and presidential authority in the United States.