Trump Set for Sentencing in Hush Money Case, Judge Denies Delay
President-elect Donald Trump is scheduled to be sentenced on Friday in his high-profile hush-money case, following Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan’s denial of Trump’s request for a delay. The sentencing is set to take place shortly before Trump’s inauguration, adding a layer of complexity to the presidential transition.
Trump’s legal team has announced plans to appeal the ruling, with the possibility of taking the case to the U.S. Supreme Court. Given the demands of the presidential transition, Trump may appear via video for the sentencing proceedings.
The case has faced numerous legal challenges, with Trump’s lawyers appealing Merchan’s refusal to dismiss the case on presidential immunity grounds. They argue that this appeal should automatically pause the proceedings. Appeal paperwork has been filed in the appellate division of the state’s trial court, though no arguments have been scheduled yet.
Manhattan prosecutors have urged for sentencing to proceed as planned, emphasizing the public interest in prompt prosecution and the finality of criminal proceedings. They have placed the blame on Trump for the delays in sentencing.
The timing of the sentencing carries significant implications. If it doesn’t occur before Trump takes office, it may be delayed until he leaves office in 2029, as the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel maintains that a sitting president is immune from criminal proceedings.
Judge Merchan has suggested an unconditional discharge as a potential solution. However, Trump’s lawyers argue that the case is meritless and cite numerous legal errors. The legal team includes high-ranking Justice Department appointees.
The charges stem from an alleged scheme to conceal a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels, focusing on Trump’s reimbursement to Michael Cohen for the payment. The conviction could result in a fine, probation, or up to four years in prison.
Trump has commented on Truth Social about the potential impact on his presidency, while Cohen, a key witness, has supported the decision for no punishment as judicious and appropriate. The sentencing has been postponed multiple times at the defense’s request.
As the legal drama unfolds, all eyes are on Friday’s proceedings and their potential impact on the incoming administration.
