Judge Postpones Sentencing in Trump Hush Money Case
NEW YORK (AP) — A judge confirmed on Friday that President-elect Donald Trump will not be sentenced this month regarding his hush money case. Judge Juan M. Merchan indicated that further proceedings would be scheduled, allowing both prosecutors and Trump’s legal team additional time to outline their next steps in the case.
Previously scheduled for November 26, the sentencing date was already in question amid ongoing legal developments since Trump’s recent electoral victory. Merchan has ordered both sides to submit further filings in the next 2.5 weeks to determine the best course of action, considering Trump’s upcoming responsibilities as president.
Trump’s lawyers have argued for the case to be dismissed outright, citing concerns that ongoing legal challenges could disrupt his transition into office. Meanwhile, prosecutors, led by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, have signaled a willingness to pause the case while Trump serves as president but insist that it should not be dismissed entirely. Bragg emphasized the need to balance presidential duties with the integrity of the jury’s verdict.
Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, deemed the ruling a "decisive win" for the incoming president. The case centers around a conviction earlier this year where Trump was found guilty of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. The payment was designed to silence Daniels about an alleged affair with Trump, which he has categorically denied.
As both sides prepare their motions, the legal community watches closely, contemplating the implications of this politically charged case on Trump’s presidency and broader legal landscape.
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