Donald Trump was sentenced on Friday by a New York judge to an “unconditional discharge” in connection with his hush money case, marking him as a convicted felon under New York state law. However, the sentence carries no further penalties.
Speaking remotely from his Florida home, Trump described the experience as “terrible” and reiterated his innocence, stating, “It was done to damage my reputation so I would lose the election.” Trump, who will be sworn in as the 47th U.S. president in 10 days, maintained that he had “done nothing wrong.”
The sentencing, which was scheduled after multiple unsuccessful appeals by Trump’s legal team, followed a 5-4 ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court late Thursday, declining to block the proceedings. The case stems from Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records connected to a hush money payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election.
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass recommended an “unconditional release” given the unique circumstances of Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration. Steinglass criticized Trump for undermining the legal process throughout the case, especially with frequent verbal attacks on judges and prosecutors.
Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche, countered that the charges were politically motivated and legally flawed. He stated that the Manhattan district attorney’s office overstepped its bounds and that the case was part of an agenda to target Trump. Blanche promised that Trump would fully appeal the conviction.
Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, remarked that the circumstances of the case were “unique” and “remarkable.” Despite his earlier suggestion that Trump would likely face an unconditional discharge, Merchan condemned the former president for his conduct and continuous attacks on the judicial system.
Trump is set to make history as the only U.S. president to face criminal charges, though the conviction will not result in immediate penalties. Trump’s actions in the case, including repeated violations of a gag order, were also highlighted by Merchan.
The case, which revolves around Trump’s involvement in the payment to Daniels, is one of several criminal cases Trump faces. He is also involved in a paused state case in Georgia related to 2020 election interference.
