Former President Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felonies by a jury in his “hush money” trial in New York, making him the first former president in U.S. history to be convicted of a crime. The jury, made up of 12 Manhattan residents, found that Trump illegally falsified business records to cover up a $130,000 payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. They reached a guilty verdict on all counts on their second day of deliberations. This verdict could have significant implications for Trump’s political future, as he is now a convicted felon.
The trial took place in a Manhattan courtroom where Trump had been on trial for the past six weeks. Trump reacted angrily to the verdict, staring at each juror as they confirmed their vote to convict and vowing to fight the conviction. Prosecutors argued that Trump authorized the plan to falsify checks and records to hide an alleged sexual encounter with Daniels from voters during his 2016 campaign. Trump denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The sentencing date for Trump has been set for July 11, just before the Republican National Convention where he is expected to be formally nominated as the party’s standard-bearer. Trump could face up to four years in prison and a $5,000 fine for each count, though the judge has discretion in imposing a sentence. The judge may choose to impose a fine, probation, home confinement, or other options instead of prison time.
The jury deliberated behind closed doors for several hours, reviewing portions of testimony and the judge’s instructions before reaching their verdict. The historic nature of the case, with a former president being convicted of felonies, has captured public attention and could impact the upcoming election in November. Trump’s status as a convicted felon may influence voters as they consider their choices at the ballot box.
Overall, the guilty verdict in Trump’s “hush money” trial marks a significant moment in U.S. political history, with a former president facing criminal convictions. The trial and subsequent conviction have raised questions about the implications for Trump’s political future and the potential impact on the upcoming election. As Trump vows to fight the conviction, the legal process will continue to unfold, shaping the narrative surrounding his presidency and legacy.
