Trump Sentencing Set in Hush Money Case, Incarceration Unlikely

A judge has scheduled the sentencing of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in the hush money case for January 10, just days before his inauguration. This decision comes after Trump’s conviction in May for falsifying business records—34 counts stemming from alleged attempts to conceal a $130,000 payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the final weeks of his 2016 presidential campaign.

While the judge, Juan Merchan, confirmed that sentencing will proceed, he indicated that incarceration is not anticipated. In a written statement, the judge suggested a conditional discharge might be appropriate, which would dismiss the case if Trump avoids future legal troubles. Merchan emphasized his responsibility to move forward with sentencing, despite arguments from Trump's legal team that presidential immunity should nullify the process.

The conviction makes Trump the first president-elect to assume office with felony charges. His lawyers sought to overturn the case, claiming the legal proceedings interfered with the transition process. However, the judge dismissed these claims, stating that there were no legal grounds to delay the sentencing further.

Trump has consistently denied having a sexual encounter with Daniels or any wrongdoing related to the payments. Responding to the sentencing announcement, his spokesperson criticized the case as politically motivated and called for its immediate dismissal, labeling the legal actions against Trump as “hoaxes” and “witch hunts.”

The president-elect has seen other legal challenges dissipate since his recent victory. Federal prosecutors have dropped two cases: one concerning alleged attempts to overturn his 2020 election loss and another involving classified documents reportedly found at his Florida residence. A state case in Georgia regarding election interference remains largely dormant.

Trump maintains his innocence in all cases, vowing to continue contesting the allegations. Despite these legal battles, he remains on course to take office amid an unprecedented legal backdrop.