Judge Reveals Trump’s Sentence in ‘Hush Money’ Case
President-elect Donald Trump received an “unconditional discharge” Friday morning in New York in connection to the highly publicized “hush money” case.
Judge Juan Merchan delivered the sentence, a resolution that avoids imprisonment, fines, or probation supervision. This outcome, which Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office supported, aligns with New York state law, allowing such a sentence when the judge deems that imposing further conditions would serve no purpose.
The decision effectively preserves Trump’s status as a convicted felon while leaving room for him to appeal the verdict without legal restrictions that might interfere with his potential return to the White House.
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass explained the DA’s office position in court: “We are recommending a sentence of unconditional discharge.”
Appearing virtually from Mar-a-Lago, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with the process, calling it “a very terrible experience and a setback for the New York court system.”
Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche, echoed the sentiment, describing the outcome as “a sad day” for the U.S.
“This is not just a sad day for President Trump, but also for his family, friends, and the nation. In counsel’s view, this case never should have been brought,” Blanche said, emphasizing their intention to appeal.
Trump himself was unrelenting in his criticism: “This has been a political witch hunt. It was done to damage my reputation. I am totally innocent—I did nothing wrong.”
During his remarks, Trump also reflected on his 2024 election victory, claiming he won the popular vote by “millions and millions” and carried all seven swing states. “The voters understand this trial was a political attack,” he said.
The case stems from DA Bragg’s investigation, which led a jury to convict Trump of first-degree falsification of business records. Trump entered a not-guilty plea to all charges and filed appeals, though Judge Merchan recently denied one such appeal.
The controversy reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which declined, in a 5-4 decision, to intervene in Trump’s sentencing. Conservative Justices John Roberts and Amy Coney Barrett joined the liberal justices in the majority.
Speaking to reporters at Mar-a-Lago following the ruling, Trump maintained optimism about his ongoing legal battles. “This is far from over, and I respect the court’s opinion,” he said, noting that the decision left the door open for further appeals.
Trump decried the legal challenges as “lawfare” against him and the Republican Party. “This was an attack on the Republican candidate who just won an election by record numbers,” he stated, adding that the efforts were designed to weaken him politically.
Despite the ruling, Trump said, “I think it’s going to work out well. We’ll see how it all unfolds.”
The legal battles surrounding Trump, especially in the context of his 2024 presidential campaign, remain a focal point of national debate, highlighting the intersection of law, politics, and public opinion.