Janice R. Andrews
A U.S. judge has set Donald Trump’s sentencing date for January 10, just ahead of his return to the White House. Judge Juan M. Merchan signaled that Trump will not face jail time, instead receiving a conditional discharge if he avoids re-arrest.
Trump’s legal team unsuccessfully sought to have the case dismissed, citing presidential immunity and potential disruptions to his upcoming presidency. The conviction relates to 34 counts of falsifying business records tied to a hush money payment made to Stormy Daniels during Trump’s 2016 campaign.
This development makes Trump the first president-elect to face felony convictions before taking office. Despite legal challenges, Merchan stressed the importance of resolving the case before Trump’s inauguration on January 20. Prosecutors argued that the conviction should remain intact, adding a significant chapter to Trump’s controversial political journey.
