The US Supreme Court has denied a request by former President Donald Trump to delay his upcoming sentencing in a hush-money case involving payments to adult film actor Stormy Daniels. The court's decision, delivered with a narrow 5-4 vote, marks another chapter in the ongoing legal saga surrounding the former president. The case centers on allegations that Trump falsified business records to conceal payments made to Daniels shortly before the 2016 election.
Trump had previously pleaded not guilty to charges related to the case. The prosecution argued that Trump attempted to disguise the $130,000 payment made by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, as "legal expenses" in business records. Cohen had paid Daniels to prevent her from disclosing an alleged affair with Trump years earlier. Prosecutors allege that this was done to avoid violating New York state election law.
The Supreme Court's decision also grants former presidents broad immunity from criminal prosecution for their official acts, although the scope of this immunity remains open to legal interpretation. Trump expressed his views on the ruling through his social media platform.
“I read it, and I thought it was a fair decision, actually.” – Donald Trump
Despite the court's ruling, Trump has announced his intention to appeal the case, citing the importance of protecting the presidency.
“For the sake and sanctity of the Presidency, I will be appealing this case, and am confident that JUSTICE WILL PREVAIL.” – Donald Trump
The emergency motion submitted by Trump was initially directed to Justice Sotomayor, who handles emergency appeals from New York. Judge Juan Merchan presided over Trump's trial and conviction last May, which resulted in 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. However, Merchan signaled that he would not impose jail time, fines, or probation. Instead, he intends to deliver a sentence of "unconditional discharge" at a brief virtual hearing.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office commented on the impact of the sentencing on Trump's responsibilities.
“Second, the burden that sentencing will impose on the president-elect’s responsibilities is relatively insubstantial in light of the trial court’s stated intent to impose a sentence of ‘unconditional discharge’ after a brief virtual hearing.” – Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg’s office
The supreme court also addressed concerns over alleged evidentiary violations during Trump's state-court trial.
“First, the alleged evidentiary violations at president-elect Trump’s state-court trial can be addressed in the ordinary course on appeal.” – The supreme court
This ruling makes Trump the only sitting or former US president to be convicted of a crime. The decision underscores the ongoing legal challenges he faces as he continues to navigate post-presidency life. While his legal team prepares for future appeals, the case remains a significant point of contention in American politics.