JUST IN: Donald Trump Sentenced to Unconditional Discharge in Hush Money Case

President-elect Donald Trump has been sentenced to an “unconditional discharge” in the New York hush money case, marking an unprecedented moment in U.S. history as he becomes the first incoming president to be sentenced for a criminal conviction. The ruling by Judge Juan Merchan upholds Trump’s May conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records, connected to payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. While the sentence carries no additional penalties, the conviction remains on record as Trump prepares to take office on January 20.

Judge Merchan emphasized that the trial followed standard legal procedures, despite the extraordinary circumstances. In delivering the sentence, he stated, “Never before has this court been presented with such a unique and remarkable set of circumstances.” He maintained that the presidency is an exceptional institution, but the trial itself was conducted like any other.

Trump, appearing remotely, decried the case as a politically motivated attack intended to harm his presidential campaign. Calling it a “political witch hunt,” he accused Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg of targeting him unfairly. Trump reiterated his innocence, declaring, “I did nothing wrong,” and characterized the case as a setback for New York’s legal system.

Despite the unconditional discharge, Trump’s legal team, led by attorney Todd Blanche, announced their intention to appeal, with Blanche labeling the case a “sad day” for both Trump and the nation. He criticized Bragg for pursuing charges after other prosecutors had previously declined to file.

The sentencing follows a 5-4 Supreme Court decision rejecting Trump’s last-minute request to halt the proceedings. Trump acknowledged the ruling, stating it was a “fair decision” and hinted at further appeals of the conviction.

Meanwhile, Trump capitalized on the sentencing to rally support, sending out fundraising emails soliciting donations and emphasizing the perceived political motives behind the case.

As Trump’s legal troubles persist, his former attorney Rudy Giuliani faces his own court battle. Giuliani appeared in a Washington, D.C., courtroom today for a contempt hearing related to a defamation case brought by Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss. The case stems from Giuliani’s false allegations of election fraud.