Trump Hush Money Trial Moves Forward as Appeals Court Denies Delay Request
Staff Editor Trump’s Sentencing in Hush Money Case Set to Proceed Despite Legal Challenges
President-elect Donald Trump’s sentencing in a high-profile hush money case is scheduled to move forward this week, following a New York appeals court judge’s rejection of his attempt to delay the proceedings. Judge Ellen Gesmer denied Trump’s request to postpone sentencing and halt the case while he appeals a decision upholding the verdict.
As it stands, Trump’s sentencing remains on schedule for Friday, though his legal team has indicated the possibility of further legal interventions. They have been attempting to move the case to federal court and have suggested escalating it to the U.S. Supreme Court.
During recent court proceedings, Trump’s lawyer, Todd Blanche, argued that as president-elect, Trump should have immunity from criminal proceedings. However, Judge Gesmer questioned the validity of extending presidential immunity to a president-elect. Prosecutor Steven Wu countered the immunity claim, citing the principle of “one president at a time.”
The defense expressed concerns that the case could interfere with Trump’s presidential transition and national security interests. Prosecutors, however, noted that Trump could appear virtually at sentencing and that the trial judge plans no jail time, fine, or probation.
Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels marks a historic moment, as he is set to be the first president to take office after a criminal conviction. The case revolves around how Trump accounted for reimbursing his lawyer Michael Cohen for the payment.
The conviction could potentially lead to penalties ranging from a fine or probation to up to four years in prison. However, the trial judge has suggested an unconditional discharge as the most viable sentence, which would close the case without further penalties.
Manhattan prosecutors are advocating for proceeding with sentencing, citing public interest in the case’s resolution. The sentencing was initially set for July 11 but has been postponed multiple times at the defense’s request.
As legal maneuvers continue, the case remains a focal point of national attention, with potential implications for Trump’s presidency and the broader political landscape.
