Court sentences president-elect in hush money case

The United States President-elect, Donald Trump, has been sentenced to unconditional discharge following his conviction last year on 34 counts of business fraud linked to a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign.

The sentence means Trump will not face imprisonment, fines, or probation. However, his conviction remains, making him the first U.S. president-elect to enter office as a convicted felon. Prosecutors supported the decision, stating in court on Friday, “we must be respectful of the office of the presidency” and mindful of Trump’s upcoming inauguration.

Initially scheduled for July, the hearing was delayed after Trump successfully petitioned the courts. He also sought an emergency intervention from the U.S. Supreme Court to postpone his sentencing — a rare move that leaned on a previous ruling granting him broad immunity from criminal prosecution. However, the Supreme Court declined his request on Thursday, clearing the way for Friday’s sentencing.

The outcome, widely anticipated, leaves Trump a convicted felon but spares him from any further penalties. Prosecutors had emphasized the unique circumstances of the case and Trump’s position as president-elect in their recommendation for leniency.

Trump remained silent as Judge Juan Merchan delivered the ruling.