In a historic turn of events, President-elect Donald Trump was sentenced on January 10, 2025, after being convicted on 34 felony counts tied to hush money payments during his 2016 presidential campaign.

The sentencing, overseen by Judge Juan Merchan in Manhattan, resulted in an unconditional discharge. This means Trump faces no jail time, fines, or probation.

The charges were linked to payments made to silence adult film star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal regarding alleged affairs—claims Trump has consistently denied. Prosecutors argued that these payments, facilitated by Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen and misclassified as legal expenses, amounted to falsified business records.

Trump’s legal team sought to delay the sentencing, citing a Supreme Court precedent on presidential immunity. However, the Supreme Court, in a narrow 5-4 ruling, denied the request. Notably, Justice Amy Coney Barrett—appointed by Trump—joined the majority decision, allowing the proceedings to move forward.

Labeling the case a politically motivated “witch hunt,” Trump announced his intention to appeal the conviction. Despite the legal battles, he is set to be inaugurated for a second term on January 20, 2025, marking a first in U.S. history—a president assuming office with a criminal conviction.

This unprecedented development has ignited global attention and debate, underscoring the complexities of balancing legal accountability with political leadership.