A judge says the former president broke the law. Many are shocked by the verdict.
- Trump was found guilty of paying hush money to a porn star before the 2016 election
- He could face up to 4 years in jail but may only get probation
- Trump calls the trial “rigged” and says he will appeal the decision
- Experts wonder if the guilty verdict will hurt his chances of being re-elected president
Will Trump actually go to jail for breaking this law? That’s the big question after this surprise court decision.
Trump Is Convicted
A jury has found Donald Trump guilty of criminal charges. The former president was accused of paying adult film star Stormy Daniels $130,000 in “hush money” before the 2016 presidential election.
The money was to keep Daniels quiet about an alleged affair with Trump years earlier. Prosecutors said the payment violated laws on documenting campaign spending.
After a trial in New York, the jury convicted Trump on all charges related to falsifying business records. The 76-year-old Trump is the first former U.S. president ever found guilty of criminal conduct.
What’s Next For Trump?
Trump now faces sentencing on July 11th, just days before the Republican convention, where he is expected to be nominated again for president. Here are some of the possible punishments Trump could receive:
- Up to 4 years in prison (the maximum)
- Probation with no jail time
- A fine or other penalties
However, legal experts expect Trump’s lawyers to appeal the verdict right away. That process could allow him to remain free while running for president over the next year.
Trump Claims Trial Was “Rigged”
Speaking to reporters after the verdict, a defiant Trump declared, “The real verdict is going to be November 5th by the people.” He claimed the trial was “rigged” by a “corrupt” judge appointed by his political enemies.
“I’m a very innocent man,” Trump stated. “This was done by the Biden Administration in order to wound or hurt an opponent.”
The former president urged supporters to “fight for our Constitution” and promised to appeal the controversial decision. “This is long from over,” he vowed.
Critics Call Verdict “Historic”
For Trump critics and legal observers, the verdict represents a historic rebuke of the brash former leader’s conduct. Some call it a powerful statement that no one is above the law.
“This is quite shocking…the biggest thing now is whether or not they will actually send Trump to jail,” said Caitlin Hornick, a reporter closely following the case.
Others question if being labelled a convicted criminal could undermine Trump’s expected bid for the White House in 2024. His core supporters seem unwavering, but it’s unclear if the guilty verdict could turn off some wavering Republican voters.
Looking Ahead
The coming months will show if this legal saga damages Trump politically or simply emboldens his efforts to regain the presidency. His team is sure to strenuously appeal the New York verdict as a “witch hunt.”
Meanwhile, Trump faces several other criminal investigations into his actions before, during and after his tumultuous single term as president. More courtroom drama appears inevitable.
Will this guilty verdict ultimately block Trump’s return to power, or will his passionate supporters propel him back to the White House despite the conviction? Only time will tell how this remarkable case impacts America’s political future.
