A New York judge is set to determine whether former President Donald Trump will face sentencing or walk away without punishment despite his conviction on 34 felony counts earlier this year. The decision, expected on Tuesday, has significant implications for Trump’s legal battles and his return to political office.
In May, a jury found Trump guilty of falsifying business records to cover up an alleged affair with an adult film actress before the 2016 election. Prosecutors argued that the concealment was an effort to bolster his campaign and secure his first term in the White House.
Trump’s sentencing, originally scheduled for November 26, could hinge on a recent Supreme Court ruling granting broad immunity to U.S. presidents for official acts conducted while in office. His defense team has requested the case be dismissed based on this precedent, a move prosecutors strongly oppose.
If Judge Juan Merchan agrees with Trump’s legal argument, the case could be thrown out, and sentencing would be avoided entirely. If not, Trump’s lawyers are expected to delay proceedings, citing potential interference with his presidential duties once he takes office in January.
Defense attorney Emil Bove argued last week that dismissing the case is critical to ensuring Trump’s ability to govern without “unconstitutional impediments.” Meanwhile, prosecutors acknowledged the complexity of the situation, calling for a balance between the jury’s decision and Trump’s political status.
This case adds to the growing list of legal challenges Trump faces. In addition to the New York trial, he is involved in two federal cases related to alleged election interference and mishandling classified documents. If reelected, Trump could potentially intervene in these matters, complicating efforts to hold him accountable.
Critics argue that politics heavily influence the ongoing cases. Former Attorney General Bill Barr and legal analysts have described the proceedings as politically motivated, while others emphasize the importance of holding Trump accountable. Randall Eliason, a former prosecutor, suggested that sentencing could proceed without hindering Trump’s role as president, ensuring justice while respecting his duties.
As the legal drama unfolds, Trump continues to dismiss the charges as a baseless “witch hunt,” insisting the case should be dropped. Whether the judge sides with the defense or prosecution, the outcome will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Trump’s return to political life.
