Donald Trump Becomes First Ex-US President to Be Convicted of a Crime
31.05.2024 : Trump Hush Money Trial: In a historic verdict, Donald Trump has become the first former US president to be convicted of a crime. A New York jury found him guilty on all charges in his hush money case, just months before a potential bid to return to the White House.
The Verdict
Trump was found guilty of all 34 counts of falsifying business records, stemming from a payment intended to silence adult film star Stormy Daniels. Although he could theoretically face up to four years in prison for each count, he is more likely to receive probation.
Historic Conviction
At 77 years old, Trump is now a felon—a startling first in American history. Despite this, he remains eligible to run for president in the upcoming election, even if he ends up serving time. Trump maintains his innocence, calling the trial “rigged” and a “disgrace.”
Political Implications
President Joe Biden’s campaign responded by stating that the trial demonstrates “no one is above the law” and emphasized the continued threat Trump poses to democracy. Judge Juan Merchan has scheduled sentencing for July 11, just days before the Republican National Convention, where Trump is expected to receive the party’s nomination.
Jury Deliberation
The 12-member jury deliberated for more than 11 hours over two days before delivering their unanimous verdict. Their identities were kept confidential, a rare measure typically reserved for cases involving organized crime.
Other Legal Battles
In addition to this conviction, Trump faces federal and state charges related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and for retaining classified documents after leaving office. These trials, involving more serious allegations, are unlikely to start before the next presidential election.
The Hush Money Case
Trump was convicted of falsifying business records to reimburse his lawyer, Michael Cohen, for a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election. Daniels testified about her alleged sexual encounter with Trump in 2006, and prosecutors argued that the hush money was intended to keep voters in the dark about Trump’s behavior.
Campaign Distractions
Despite the trial, Trump has continued his campaign efforts, using the media attention to his advantage. Shortly after the verdict, his campaign issued a fundraising appeal titled “I am a political prisoner!” He is also set to make a public statement soon.
Expert Analysis
Keith Gaddie, a political analyst and professor at Texas Christian University, noted that the political impact of these events remains uncertain. While it may not sway many votes, it could influence tight races in key states.
Potential Outcomes
As a first-time convict, Trump is expected to receive probation. An appeal is almost certain, but it could take months to resolve. Even if Trump wins the presidency, he cannot pardon himself for state charges; only the governor of New York has that authority.