What we know as of Friday, May 31, 2024:
- On Thursday, May 30, 2024 Donald Trump was found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in his hush money trial.
- The sentencing hearing was set by Judge Juan Merchan for July 11, 2024.
- This is the first time a former president has been convicted.
- Trump can still run for office and be nominated as the GOP candidate.
- Trump called the trial a “disgrace.”
What does it all mean?
Last night the country witnessed history in real time. Not only is Donald Trump the first former president to be convicted, but if he wins office in the upcoming elections, he will be the first convicted felon president.
On July 11, 2024 at 10 a.m. the sentencing trial will begin. Until that time Trump will not be jailed and he was not asked to post any bond.
The judge rejected the pro forma request for an acquittal put forth by Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche.
“The Constitution contains only limited qualifications for running for office (being at least 35 years old, a natural born citizen, and at least 14 years a resident of the U.S.).”
– Richard L. Hasen, Los Angeles law professor
If Trump is sentenced to serve jail time he could lose his right to vote in the next election if he has not completed his sentence by the time voting begins.
Although Trump could be sentenced up to four years in prison, it is also possible that he will be sentenced to probation and never actually see the inside of a prison cell.
We will keep you updated as changes happen within the case.
(Featured image: Doug Mills/The New York Times)
Written by Jaime Herzog, Creative Director
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