As expected, President-elect Donald Trump has been granted an unconditional discharge in his New York hush money case.
This outcome aligns with expectations set earlier in the week by Judge Juan Merchan, who indicated that Trump would not face prison time, fines, or probation. The judge’s decision reflects an acknowledgment of the principle of presidential immunity, which comes into effect on January 20, coinciding with Trump’s inauguration….
The case stems from Trump’s conviction for falsifying records linked to hush money payments made by his former attorney, Michael Cohen, to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the final days of the 2016 presidential election. Daniels has alleged a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006, an allegation that Trump has consistently denied. Notably, Trump attended the sentencing remotely via video, appearing from Florida amid a backdrop of two American flags.
RELATED:New York Appeals Court Denies Trump’s Request To Halt Friday’s Hush Money Sentencing
Throughout the proceedings, Trump has maintained his innocence, labeling the prosecution as politically motivated. Ahead of the sentencing, he described the case as an “injustice” and reiterated his assertion that it represented a “witch hunt.”
“This is a case that should have never been brought, it’s an injustice, of justice,” Trump declared, emphasizing his belief in his innocence.
He went on to express gratitude for the United States Supreme Court’s involvement, stating, “I appreciate the time and effort of the United States Supreme Court in trying to remedy the great injustice done to me by the highly conflicted ‘Acting Justice,’ who should not have been allowed to try this case. Every Legal Scholar stated, unequivocally, that this is a case that should never have been brought. There was no case against me. In other words, I am innocent of all of the Judge’s made up, fake charges.”
Further commenting on the implications of the case, Trump claimed, “This was nothing other than Weaponization of our Justice System against a Political Opponent. It’s called Lawfare, and nothing like this has ever happened in the United States of America, and it should never be allowed to happen again.” He criticized the imposition of a gag order, which he argued infringed upon his First Amendment rights related to the case.
In a determined tone, Trump concluded, “For the sake and sanctity of the Presidency, I will be appealing this case, and am confident that JUSTICE WILL PREVAIL. The pathetic, dying remnants of the Witch Hunts against me will not distract us as we unite and, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
As of now, Trump has not provided a new reaction following his release and return to the White House, leaving many to speculate on his next moves in the political landscape.
