A New York judge has decided to delay the sentencing of former President Donald Trump in connection with payments made to actress Stormy Daniels to keep her silent before the 2016 elections. The new date is set for November 26, after the presidential elections on the 5th of that month, unless the case is dismissed beforehand, according to Telemundo 51.
Originally, it was expected that Trump, a Republican candidate, would be sentenced on September 18. However, Judge Juan Merchan agreed to the defense’s request to postpone the sentencing, which could give the defense time to appeal a pending ruling.
The defense argues that presidents cannot be criminally prosecuted for official acts and hopes that the Supreme Court’s ruling on presidential immunity will influence this case. The prosecution, led by Alvin Bragg, contends that the charges against Trump are not related to his official duties but rather to personal conduct. Despite this, prosecutors did not oppose the delay, arguing that an appellate court might intervene and delay it anyway.
This case has generated significant attention due to its historical relevance, being the first criminal trial against a former president of the United States. Trump has denied the allegations and vowed to appeal the verdict once sentenced.
In 2023, the former president called on his supporters to protest his potential arrest by a Manhattan grand jury investigating the payments to the adult film actress, who claimed to have had an affair with the mogul.
On Tuesday, September 10, Trump will face Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, in the second presidential debate of the 2024 season. This will be the first face-to-face encounter between the vice president and the former president.
Key Questions About Trump's Legal Troubles
Given the high-profile nature of this case, many people have questions about its implications and next steps. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why was Trump's sentencing delayed?
The sentencing was delayed to allow the defense time to appeal a pending ruling and possibly benefit from the Supreme Court's decision on presidential immunity.
What are the charges against Trump?
The charges are related to payments made to Stormy Daniels to keep her silent before the 2016 elections. The prosecution claims these are personal misconducts, not related to his official duties.
What is the significance of this case?
This is the first criminal trial against a former president of the United States, making it a case of historical importance.