Judge Sets Sentencing for Trump 10 Days Before Inauguration in Hush Money Case

In an unprecedented turn of events, former President Donald Trump will face sentencing on January 10, just 10 days before his second inauguration, in a hush money case involving payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential election.

Judge Juan Merchan, presiding over the case, confirmed on Friday that Trump is unlikely to face jail time. Instead, the judge is leaning toward an unconditional discharge, meaning no conditions will be imposed on the real estate tycoon.

Trump to Be Sentenced as a Convicted Felon

Despite avoiding incarceration, the sentencing will mark Trump’s entry into the White House as a convicted felon—the first in U.S. history. The 78-year-old former president was convicted in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment made to Daniels to prevent her from disclosing an alleged affair.

While Trump potentially faced up to four years in prison, legal experts had long doubted that Merchan would impose a jail term, especially after Trump won the November presidential election.

"It seems proper at this juncture to make known the Court's inclination to not impose any sentence of incarceration," Judge Merchan stated, citing that even prosecutors did not recommend jail time.

Trump Denounces the Ruling

Trump, as expected, criticized the decision on his platform Truth Social, calling it:

"An illegitimate political attack and a Rigged Charade."

He also described Judge Merchan as a “radical partisan” and claimed the ruling violates constitutional protections. Trump is expected to appeal, potentially delaying the sentencing process.

Presidential Immunity Debate

The case has reignited debates over presidential immunity. Trump’s attorneys argued for dismissal, citing a Supreme Court ruling that provides former presidents sweeping immunity from prosecution for official acts. Judge Merchan rejected this argument but acknowledged that Trump will regain immunity upon taking the presidential oath on January 20, 2025.

"It is incumbent upon this Court to impose sentencing prior to January 20," Merchan wrote in his 18-page decision.

Reactions from Trump’s Camp

Steven Cheung, a Trump spokesperson, blasted the decision as unconstitutional, calling for an immediate dismissal of the case.

“President Trump must be allowed to continue the Presidential Transition process without interference from these Witch Hunts,” Cheung said.

Other Legal Cases Against Trump

Trump faces additional legal challenges, though his return to the presidency will shield him from prosecution in some cases:

• Federal Cases: Two cases brought by special counsel Jack Smith—alleging election interference and mishandling classified documents—were dropped under Justice Department policy prohibiting the prosecution of a sitting president.
• Georgia Racketeering Case: Accusations of election tampering in Georgia remain active but will likely be paused during Trump’s presidency.
  
  

  What’s Next?

  As Trump prepares for his January 20 inauguration, the legal battles surrounding his presidency continue to fuel division in an already polarized political landscape. The January 10 sentencing is set to be another defining moment in Trump’s tumultuous career.
  
  

  Key Takeaways

  • Sentencing Date: January 10, 2025, 10 days before Trump’s inauguration.
  • Likely Outcome: No jail time; judge leans toward unconditional discharge.
  • Trump’s Response: Strong condemnation, plans to appeal.
  • Historical Impact: Trump to re-enter the White House as a convicted felon, a first in U.S. history.