Donald Trump has been sentenced to an unconditional discharge in the landmark hush-money case, a decision that shields him from jail time, fines, or probation. Judge Juan Merchan delivered the sentence, heavily influenced by Trump's recent victory in the presidential election. Despite being found guilty of 34 felonies, prosecutors favored this unique sentencing approach due to practical concerns, including Trump's impending presidency. The case marks an unprecedented moment in U.S. history, with a president-elect tried and sentenced amid an election season.
In a move that reflects the nation's division on the matter, the American populace largely believes that the case should never have been brought forward, with many agreeing that Trump should enjoy the benefits of presidential immunity. As Trump prepares to assume office in ten days, the trial has stirred significant debate over legal and political norms.
During the proceedings, Trump claimed that the Justice Department was involved in the New York case, a statement proven false. His lawyer, Todd Blanche, represented him during the sentencing hearing. Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass highlighted Trump's alleged threats to retaliate against the court and prosecution. In a notable conclusion to the hearing, Judge Merchan expressed his best wishes for Trump's upcoming term, saying, "godspeed as you assume your second term in office."
Outside the courthouse, a group of around 20 Trump supporters gathered to show their backing, while approximately 15 anti-Trump protesters voiced their opposition. The scene was documented by Guardian US photographer Julius Constantine Motal.
Trump's reaction to the case has been vocal and impassioned. Reflecting on his experience, he stated:
"This has been a very terrible experience." – Donald Trump
He further criticized the impact on New York's judicial system:
"I think it’s been a tremendous setback for New York, the New York court system." – Donald Trump
Trump also questioned the motivations behind the case:
"This is a case that Alvin Bragg did not want to bring … from what I read and what I hear, inappropriately handled before he got there." – Donald Trump
Expressing disbelief over his indictment, he remarked:
"I called a legal fee a legal expense and for this, I got indicted. It’s incredible, actually." – Donald Trump
He labeled the case a miscarriage of justice:
"They all said this case that should have never been brought, it’s an injustice." – Donald Trump
Asserting political bias, Trump added:
"It’s been a political witch hunt… to damage my reputation so that I’d lose the election, obviously that didn’t work.” – Donald Trump
Trump also commented on his unprecedented gag order:
"I was under a gag order, I’m the first president in history [under] a gag order” – Donald Trump
Despite this restriction, he maintained his innocence:
"I assume that I’m still under a gag order but the fact is I’m totally innocent, I did nothing wrong.” – Donald Trump
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass emphasized the broader implications of Trump's actions:
"This defendant has caused enduring damage to public perception of the criminal justice system and has placed officers and court in harms’ way” – John Steinglass
Meanwhile, John Ahern expressed optimism about future prospects:
"Ultimately, I’m enthusiastic about what’s going to happen, not just for America, but for the world” – John Ahern
The trial's outcome underscores complex intersections between law and politics. While Trump's presidential election victory influenced his sentencing, it also sparked discussions on accountability and privilege. The case may set precedents for future legal proceedings involving high-profile political figures.