A jury found former President Donald Trump guilty on all charges related to hiding hush money payments made to a porn star during his 2016 campaign.
Key Points:
- Trump was convicted of 34 counts of falsifying business records
- He tried to conceal a payment made to porn actor Stormy Daniels
- This is the first time a former U.S. president has been criminally convicted
- The verdict came in the middle of Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign
Why does this matter?
How will this historic guilty verdict impact Trump’s chances in the upcoming election? Read on to learn more.
Trial Summary: A Disgrace
When the jury forewoman announced guilty 34 times for the counts against him, Trump sat silently at first. He then turned to face the jurors as they confirmed the unanimous decision. Afterward, Trump spoke out, calling the case a disgrace and the judge corrupt.
He insisted the real verdict would come from voters in the November 2024 presidential election when he ran against Biden. However, opinion polls before the trial suggested this scandal could sway some still-undecided voters against Trump due to the conviction.
What Happens Next?
Sentencing on July 11th
The judge scheduled sentencing for July 11th. Before then, Trump will meet with probation officers about his history and character despite having committed these crimes while president.
He faces up to four years in prison, though non-custodial sentences are more common for falsifying business records. If elected president, a Justice Department memo would likely shield Trump from serving any jail time so that he could continue to perform his duties.
Appealing the Conviction
Trump will almost certainly appeal the verdict immediately, a process that could take around a year. His sentencing would likely be deferred until the appeal is completed.
There are also questions about whether being under sentence could prevent Trump from voting in Florida, an important swing state if it is not postponed until after the election.
A Bizarre, Historic Trial
Times correspondent Will Pavia called it a very strange event covering this unprecedented trial. It was highly unusual to see the brash, rule-breaking Trump having to obey strict courtroom decorum and appear disengaged.
The trial featured a mix of conflicting witnesses – some still fiercely loyal to Trump like Hope Hicks, who broke down in tears, others now adversaries like Michael Cohen pushing for jail time. Even Stormy Daniels herself took the stand comfortably recounting intimate details of her alleged affair with Trump that the hush payment aimed to conceal.
Impact on 2024 Race Uncertain
While the conviction may sway some voters, many doubt it will derail Trump’s campaign momentum. As Pavia said, “Trump has so successfully used things that you would think would kill off the careers of so many other politicians to his advantage.”
Only time will tell how this historic guilty verdict affects the highly divisive former president’s third shot at the White House. One thing is certain – American politics has entered uncharted waters.
Do you think this criminal conviction will hurt or help Trump’s chances in 2024? Why or why not?
