New York, December 17 2024 — A Manhattan judge has denied President-elect Donald Trump’s attempt to overturn his conviction related to falsifying business records, despite Trump’s claims of immunity based on a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Trump was convicted in May on 34 felony counts tied to a $130,000 hush money payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the closing days of the 2016 presidential campaign. Prosecutors argued that the payment aimed to silence Daniels’ claims of a past sexual encounter with Trump, which Trump has consistently denied.
The defense sought to leverage the Supreme Court’s June decision, which shields presidents from prosecution for official acts, arguing that evidence introduced during the trial—such as White House aides’ testimony and Trump’s financial disclosures—violated immunity protections. However, Judge Juan Merchan dismissed these arguments, asserting that even if some evidence pertained to Trump’s presidential duties, it did not compromise the fairness of the verdict.
Prosecution’s Position
Prosecutors emphasized that the disputed evidence was minimal and that the jury’s decision relied heavily on overwhelming proof of guilt. They maintained that Trump’s actions were personal, not official, and the conviction does not interfere with executive authority.
Future of the Case
Trump’s legal team remains adamant that the case should be dismissed, with Trump’s spokesperson calling the ruling a “direct violation” of the Constitution. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office declined to comment.
This decision comes as Trump prepares to assume office on January 20, 2025, marking a significant legal and political hurdle for the president-elect.
