Judge Juan Merchan has decided to postpone Donald Trump’s sentencing until after the 2024 election, a move that could have potential “downsides” for the former president, according to legal experts.
In May, a jury found Trump guilty on 34 felony counts tied to a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels, a former adult film actress, during his 2016 presidential campaign. Originally set for July 11, the sentencing was shifted to September 18, and now it will take place on November 26, about three weeks following the presidential election.
The judge cited the need to maintain the integrity of the electoral process, stating that the delay ensures there is no appearance that the legal proceedings are politically influenced.
Reactions to the postponement have been mixed. MSNBC legal analyst Andrew Weissmann noted that the delay actually keeps the Supreme Court from intervening pre-election, which could be unfavorable for Trump. He commented that those considering this a win for Trump may be overlooking the lasting effects of the conviction without political interference.
Additionally, Judge Merchan will decide on November 12 whether to dismiss the guilty verdict entirely, based on a motion that references a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding presidential immunity.
Opinions vary on Merchan’s decision. Glenn Kirschner, a former federal prosecutor, argued that once Trump is no longer a candidate, it will be easier for the judge to impose a prison sentence. Conversely, CNN legal analyst Norman Eisen criticized the ruling, claiming it was influenced by political considerations and pointing out that other defendants don’t receive such special treatment. Joyce Vance, also a former U.S. attorney, suggested if Merchan hadn’t postponed the trial, another court would likely have stepped in.
During the trial, prosecutors asserted that Trump falsified records to hide the payment to Daniels, who alleged it was meant to silence her about an alleged affair with him. Trump has denied any wrongdoing and has labeled the charges as politically motivated, aimed at hindering his 2024 campaign.
Following the ruling, Trump took to Truth Social, denouncing the case as a “witch hunt” and arguing that the delay confirms there is no legitimate case against him. He expressed gratitude for the judge’s conditional wording regarding the sentencing date, calling for the case to be dismissed as they gear up for an important election.