What Happens to Trump Now: The recent conviction of former President Donald Trump on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money payment scheme has sent shockwaves through the political and legal landscapes. As the first former U.S. president to be convicted of a crime, Trump’s case is unprecedented and raises numerous questions about the potential legal, political, and social ramifications. This article explores what could happen next, from possible prison time to the impact on his political future.
Key Takeaways
- Trump has been convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment scheme.
- The potential legal consequences for Trump include prison time, fines, and probation.
- Trump is expected to appeal the conviction, which could delay the sentencing process significantly.
- The conviction has significant implications for Trump’s political future, including his ability to run for president again.
- Public opinion and media coverage of the conviction are expected to influence future elections and the broader U.S. political landscape.
The Legal Ramifications of Trump’s Conviction
Potential Prison Time
Following his conviction, former President Donald Trump faces the possibility of prison time. The crimes he has been found guilty of, falsifying business records in the first degree, are class E felonies in New York. These are the least serious category of felonies but are still punishable by up to four years in prison for each count. Trump’s sentencing is set for July 11, and Judge Juan Merchan will decide the exact punishment. For now, Trump remains out of prison as he awaits his sentencing.
Fines and Financial Penalties
In addition to potential prison time, Trump could also face significant fines and financial penalties. The exact amount will depend on the judge’s decision during sentencing. Financial penalties are often used as a deterrent and to ensure that the convicted party does not benefit from their illegal actions. Given the high-profile nature of this case, the fines could be substantial.
Probation Possibilities
Another possible outcome for Trump is probation. This would allow him to avoid prison time but would come with strict conditions and oversight. Probation could include regular check-ins with a probation officer, restrictions on travel, and other limitations on his activities. The judge has the discretion to impose probation instead of prison time, depending on various factors, including Trump’s behavior and the specifics of the case.
The immediate next question is: what punishment should the former US president receive?
Prison, Fines, Probation? What Happens Now That Trump’s Been Convicted in His Hush Money Trial? The decision rests entirely with Judge Juan Merchan, who will weigh the severity of the crimes and the circumstances surrounding the case.
Appealing the Verdict: What Are Trump’s Chances?
The Appeal Process Explained
Trump has consistently appealed court rulings against him in an effort to delay the proceedings or eventually land his case before a court that may side with him. The New York case is no different. Shortly after Trump was convicted, his attorney Todd Blanche asked Merchan for an acquittal of the charges notwithstanding the guilty verdict. The judge rejected the pro forma request.
Historical Precedents
During the course of the trial, Trump’s legal team took other steps to preserve its right to appeal a potential guilty verdict, looking at rulings from the judge on testimony and evidence. They’re all but certain to mount such an appeal in the coming weeks.
Potential Delays and Outcomes
Appeals usually take months to decide and an opinion in Trump’s case would likely come in 2025, legal experts said. Trump’s sentence could be put on hold pending the outcome of an appeal, Serafini and Acevedo said. Timmons said Trump could also be required to post a bond in order to have the judgment against him delayed while he awaits an appellate ruling.
To win on appeal, Trump would have to prove that the trial court made a legal error that harmed his case. He could face retrial.
Impact on Trump’s Political Future
Despite his conviction, Trump is still eligible to run for president. The U.S. Constitution does not prohibit a convicted felon from running for or holding the office of the President. This means that even with the prospect of a prison sentence, Trump can continue his campaign efforts.
In a deeply divided America, it’s unclear whether Trump’s once-unimaginable criminal conviction will have any impact at all on the election. Leading strategists in both parties believe that Trump still remains well-positioned to defeat President Joe Biden, even as the Republican now faces the prospect of a prison sentence and three separate criminal cases still outstanding.
Meanwhile, opinion polls indicate that Trump and Biden, 81, are in a close race. At the same time, Reuters/Ipsos surveys suggest that a guilty verdict could reduce Trump’s support among independent and Republican voters.
The conviction does not prevent Trump from continuing his campaign or becoming president, the Associated Press reported. However, there are broader constitutional questions at play. For instance, can Trump still vote for himself in the 2024 election? The answer is yes, as there are no legal restrictions preventing him from doing so.
The legal landscape surrounding Trump’s conviction is complex, but it does not bar him from pursuing the highest office in the land.
There has been some polling conducted on the prospect of a guilty verdict, although such hypothetical scenarios are notoriously difficult to predict. A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll found that only 4% of Trump’s supporters said they would withdraw their backing if he’s convicted of a felony, though another 16% said they would reconsider it.
How Trump’s Legal Team is Responding
Defense Strategies
Trump’s legal team has been vocal about their intention to appeal the conviction. “We are going to appeal as quickly as we can,” said Will Scharf, one of Trump’s attorneys. They are seeking an expedited review of the case, focusing on several key points, including the judge’s ruling that limited the testimony of a potential defense expert witness. During the trial, the team took steps to preserve their right to appeal, scrutinizing rulings on testimony and evidence.
Public Statements
Trump has consistently proclaimed his innocence, calling the trial a “disgrace” and claiming it was rigged against him. His sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, have also been vocal on social media, criticizing the verdict. Eric Trump even suggested that the conviction might boost his father’s chances in the 2024 Presidential Election.
Next Steps
The next steps for Trump’s legal team involve filing the appeal and preparing for the sentencing phase. They are likely to argue that the hush money payments do not constitute campaign finance violations, a point they wanted to make during the trial through expert testimony. The team is also preparing for potential delays and outcomes as they navigate the complex legal landscape ahead.
Public Opinion and Media Coverage
Media Reactions
The media has been abuzz with the news of Trump’s conviction. Major networks like CNN and Fox News have dedicated extensive coverage to the trial and its aftermath. Bold headlines and breaking news segments have kept the public informed and engaged. The media’s portrayal of the trial has varied, with some outlets focusing on the legal aspects while others delve into the political implications.
Public Sentiment
Public opinion is deeply divided on Trump’s conviction. Opinion polls indicate that Trump and Biden are in a close race, with the verdict potentially impacting Trump’s support among independent and Republican voters. A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll found that only 4% of Trump’s supporters would withdraw their backing if he’s convicted of a felony, though another 16% said they would reconsider it.
The lawsuit drama involving Shannon Beador, John Janssen, and Alexis Bellino with public opinion and potential scenarios highlights how public sentiment can be influenced by high-profile cases.
Influence on Future Elections
The conviction’s impact on future elections is a hot topic. Analysts suggest that while Trump’s core base may remain loyal, the verdict could sway undecided voters. The Biden campaign has already started strategizing on how to leverage the conviction in their favor. The influence of media coverage and public opinion will be crucial in shaping the political landscape as the 2024 elections approach.
The Broader Implications for U.S. Politics
Following Trump’s conviction in the hush money case, the Republican Party faces a significant dilemma. On one hand, Trump remains a powerful figure with a loyal base. On the other hand, his legal troubles could alienate moderate voters. This situation forces the party to balance between supporting Trump and distancing itself to appeal to a broader electorate.
Trump’s conviction sets a notable precedent in U.S. legal history. It demonstrates that even a former president is not above the law. This could embolden future legal actions against high-profile figures, reinforcing the principle of accountability. The magnitude of such a decision is not one-sided, as it impacts both the judicial system and public perception.
Public trust in the legal system is at a crossroads. While some view the conviction as a victory for justice, others see it as politically motivated. This division reflects the deeply polarized state of American society. Judges also consider the harm caused by such actions, weighing the technical violations against the broader impact on the country.
In a deeply divided America, it’s unclear whether Trump’s once-unimaginable criminal conviction will have any impact at all on the election.
What Happens Next in the Legal Process?
Sentencing Phase
Now that Trump has been convicted, the next step is the sentencing phase. This is where the judge will determine the appropriate punishment for his crimes. Trump will remain out of custody while awaiting July 11 sentencing. During this phase, both the prosecution and defense will present arguments and evidence to influence the judge’s decision.
Possible Outcomes
There are several possible outcomes for Trump’s sentencing:
- Prison Time: Depending on the severity of the charges and the judge’s discretion, Trump could face time in prison.
- Fines: Financial penalties are also a possibility, which could be substantial given the nature of the crimes.
- Probation: Instead of prison, Trump might be placed on probation, requiring him to adhere to certain conditions and regularly report to a probation officer.
Timeline of Events
The legal process is far from over. Here’s a rough timeline of what to expect next:
- Notice of Appeal: Trump has 30 days to file a notice of appeal of the guilty verdict.
- Full Appeal: He then has six months to file a full appeal to the first judicial department, which hears appeals from New York county.
- Appellate Ruling: Appeals usually take months to decide, and an opinion in Trump’s case would likely come in 2025.
The appellate process would take months, even years, to play out, meaning it could be a while before the sentence would take effect.
During this time, Trump could be required to post a bond in order to have the judgment against him delayed while he awaits an appellate ruling.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records marks a significant moment in American history, as he becomes the first former president to be found guilty of a crime. The road ahead is fraught with legal battles, including potential appeals that could delay his sentencing and any subsequent penalties. Whether Trump faces prison time, hefty fines, or probation, the implications of this case will undoubtedly reverberate through the political landscape and the upcoming elections. As the nation watches closely, the outcome of Trump’s legal journey will set a precedent for how the justice system handles high-profile figures moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Donald Trump convicted of?
Donald Trump was found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in relation to a hush money payment scheme.
Could Trump go to prison as a result of his conviction?
Yes, Trump faces the possibility of a prison sentence. The charges he faces carry a maximum sentence of four years in prison.
Can Trump still run for president after his conviction?
Despite his conviction, Trump can still run for president. The U.S. Constitution does not prohibit a convicted felon from running for or holding the office of president.
What are the next steps in the legal process for Trump?
The next steps include the sentencing phase, which is scheduled for July 11, and a likely appeal from Trump’s legal team, which could delay the final outcome.
How is Trump’s legal team responding to the conviction?
Trump’s legal team is expected to appeal the conviction, and they have publicly denounced the trial as unfair and the verdict as “rigged.”
What impact could Trump’s conviction have on his political future?
Trump’s conviction could influence public and political reactions, potentially impacting his chances in future elections and affecting his standing within the Republican Party.