In a high-profile legal development, a New York judge has rejected President-elect Donald Trump’s motion to overturn his conviction in the ongoing criminal case tied to alleged hush money payments.

Judge Juan Merchan dismissed Trump’s arguments to vacate the verdict, despite the former president’s reliance on the Supreme Court’s presidential immunity decision. Trump, who has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree, had previously sought to have the charges dropped on similar grounds.

No Prison Sentence for Trump

Merchan clarified that he does not intend to impose a prison sentence on Trump. Instead, the judge indicated that sentencing, scheduled for January 10, will likely result in an "unconditional discharge," meaning no penalties or further punitive measures will be imposed. Trump has the option to attend the sentencing either in person or virtually.

Trump’s Legal Battle Continues

The case, spearheaded by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, centers around an investigation into alleged payments made to suppress damaging information during Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. Despite the court’s ruling, Trump’s legal team has vowed to continue fighting the charges.

Steven Cheung, Trump’s spokesman and incoming White House Communications Director, criticized the decision, calling it a violation of constitutional protections. He reiterated Trump’s commitment to “ending all hoaxes” and ensuring a smooth transition as he prepares to assume office on January 20 as the 47th President of the United States.

Judge Merchan's Reasoning

In his written decision, Merchan noted that dismissing the case would deny Trump the right to appeal the verdict. The judge also rejected the Manhattan DA’s suggestion to preserve the verdict while halting proceedings, stating it would be legally inappropriate.

Merchan is still reviewing additional motions filed by Trump’s legal team seeking dismissal of the charges.

Trump’s Statement

“Today’s order by Acting Justice Merchan is another chapter in the ongoing Manhattan DA Witch Hunt. This case is unconstitutional and should have been dismissed long ago,” Cheung stated.

As Trump gears up for his second term, the case remains a significant legal and political spectacle. The world will be watching closely as the sentencing unfolds next week.