31-5-2024 (NEW YORK) In an unprecedented verdict that etched a historic milestone, Donald Trump, the former president of the United States, has been convicted on all charges in his high-profile hush money case. The guilty verdict, delivered by a New York jury, marks the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted of a crime, adding an extraordinary chapter to Trump’s tumultuous political journey mere months before a pivotal election that could potentially see him reclaim the White House.
The jury found Trump guilty on each of the 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a payment aimed at silencing adult film star Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford. While he could theoretically face up to four years in prison for each count, legal experts suggest that probation is a more likely outcome given his status as a first-time offender.
At 77 years old, the Republican former president now bears the unprecedented distinction of being a convicted felon – a startling first in a nation where presidents are often described as the most powerful individuals in the world. Despite this historic conviction, Trump remains eligible to continue his bid to unseat incumbent President Joe Biden in the upcoming November election, even in the unlikely event that he is incarcerated.
Immediately following the verdict, Trump maintained a defiant stance, proclaiming his innocence to reporters and vowing that the “real verdict” would come from voters. He branded the trial as “rigged” and a “disgrace,” echoing his longstanding claims of political persecution.
President Biden’s campaign swiftly issued a statement, asserting that the trial demonstrated “no one is above the law.” The statement further warned that “the threat Trump poses to our democracy has never been greater.”
Judge Juan Merchan has scheduled Trump’s sentencing for July 11, just four days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where the former president is expected to receive the party’s formal nomination for the presidency.
The 12-member jury deliberated for more than 11 hours over two days before unanimously delivering the guilty verdict within a matter of minutes. Throughout the proceedings, the jurors’ identities were kept secret – a rare practice typically reserved for cases involving violent or organized crime defendants.
While the hush money case has garnered significant attention, Trump faces even graver legal challenges. He is currently facing federal and state charges related to his alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election and for reportedly hoarding classified documents after leaving the White House. However, these trials on weightier alleged crimes are unlikely to commence before the upcoming presidential election.
Even as the verdict was announced, Trump’s campaign swiftly launched a fundraising appeal, titled “I am a political prisoner!” The former president also announced plans to address journalists on Friday, underscoring his determination to leverage the trial’s media attention for his political aspirations.
Political analysts suggest that while the conviction’s impact on voter sentiment remains uncertain, it could sway undecided voters in crucial swing states, potentially influencing the outcome of tight races.
