They are refusing to stand down!
As the countdown to President-elect Donald Trump’s second term continues, New York prosecutors are preparing for the next phase of his business records case. With his sentencing set for November 26, prosecutors are making it clear that they will oppose any effort to dismiss his conviction. However, they have expressed some willingness to delay the proceedings until after he assumes office in January, recognizing the unique constitutional issues at play.
Trump was convicted in May for faking business records related to a $130,000 payment made to adult star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. Prosecutors claim that Trump directed the payment to keep the story from influencing voters, categorizing it as an illegal attempt to influence the election. Trump, on the other hand, denies the allegations, asserting that the payment was properly classified as a legal expense.
The case has been contentious from the start. Trump’s legal team has argued that the prosecution was politically motivated, calling the case part of a “witch hunt” designed to sabotage his presidential campaign. They’ve also raised concerns about presidential immunity, citing a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in July that gave sitting presidents broad protection from criminal prosecution for actions taken while in office.
As Trump prepares for his return to the White House, his legal team is seeking to have the case dismissed on constitutional grounds, arguing that it creates undue burdens on his ability to govern. The Manhattan district attorney’s office, however, insists the case should proceed, noting that Trump’s status as a president-elect does not justify dismissing the case. They also acknowledge the challenges his return to office might present but maintain that justice must be served.
If the conviction stands, Trump faces potential penalties ranging from fines or probation to up to four years in prison. However, given the nature of the crime and his first-time offender status, it’s unlikely that he would serve time behind bars.
The case is particularly sensitive because it is a state-level issue, meaning Trump cannot pardon himself if convicted. This makes it an even more complex and politically charged case. While Trump’s supporters rally behind him, many of whom have worn “Free Trump” shirts at rallies, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for his future and his ability to run for president again in 2024.
In the midst of all this, Trump faces multiple other legal challenges, including federal charges related to the mishandling of classified documents and attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. His critics argue that these cases are emblematic of his disregard for the law, while his supporters view them as attacks from a political system bent on taking down a successful outsider. As the legal battles continue, Trump’s resilience in the face of these charges is likely to remain a defining characteristic of his campaign.