Hush Money Case: Supreme Court Denies Trump’s Appeal, Sentencing to Proceed

The US Supreme Court has rejected President-elect Donald Trump’s plea to delay his criminal sentencing in the hush money case. In a 5-4 decision on Thursday, the Court ended Trump’s efforts to avoid punishment. Consequently, Trump will become the first felon to assume the presidency after his sentencing on Friday.

Virtual Sentencing Expected

Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the case, has allowed Trump to attend the sentencing virtually. It is likely that Trump will be granted an unconditional discharge, which is a rare alternative to prison or probation with no additional conditions. This decision marks the end of Trump’s attempts to delay the sentencing.

Dissents from Conservative Justices

However, four conservative justices dissented from the ruling. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh disagreed with the majority. In contrast, Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined the liberal justices to deny Trump’s appeal. Notably, Trump had been convicted on 34 counts in May.

Delays and Immunity Claims

The sentencing, originally scheduled for July, was delayed after the Supreme Court granted former presidents some immunity. Following his election win, Trump’s legal team argued that, as president-elect, he should receive the same protections afforded to sitting presidents. Nevertheless, Judge Merchan rejected this claim, emphasizing that the sentencing process must move forward.

Concerns Over Felony Conviction

Despite the likelihood of an unconditional discharge, Trump will still be labeled a felon. His legal team has expressed concerns about the consequences of the conviction, such as restrictions on travel or reporting requirements. D. John Sauer, Trump’s attorney, argued that these restrictions would be unconstitutional under the doctrine of Presidential immunity.

Manhattan DA Opposes Delay

Meanwhile, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg opposed Trump’s request for a delay. Prosecutors highlighted the public interest in proceeding with sentencing and pointed out that the court had taken steps to minimize the burden on Trump, including offering him an unconditional discharge. They further noted that Trump’s claim about presidential duties preventing him from attending virtually lacked proper support.

No Further Delays

Ultimately, the Supreme Court refused to intervene after all three levels of New York’s state court system also denied Trump’s delay request. Trump faces charges for falsifying business records to conceal a payment made to a porn star during the 2016 election campaign. However, Trump has denied any wrongdoing.